Caring for indoor plants at home requires time and attention. Proper watering in the right amount and at the right time is essential, as too much or too little water can cause the plant’s leaves to turn yellow, wither, and even die. Experts have shared methods to rescue yellowing leaves.
Yellowing leaves are one of the most common issues plants face, according to a report by the UK’s “Daily Express.” Initially, you might think it’s a normal occurrence or related to the current season, but that’s not always the case.
Álvaro Pedrera, an expert who frequently shares gardening tips on social media, explained that if the tips of your plant’s leaves turn yellow or brown, it indicates a problem.
In a recent video, Pedrera mentioned that 90% of indoor plant deaths are due to overwatering. Overwatering can cause leaves to turn yellow or brown and lead to root rot.
He warned that this increases the risk of plants dying. Restoring their health is “challenging but not impossible.” He provided five steps that can be followed to achieve this goal.
(1) Remove the plant’s root ball from the pot and let it dry for a day.
(2) Remove all old soil.
(3) Trim off any rotting roots carefully if they appear black or dry.
(4) Repot the plant with new soil, ensuring the new soil is suitable for your plant.
(5) Wait for 4 to 5 days without watering. When you water again, significantly reduce the amount and frequency.
Pedrera advised noting watering schedules down on the calendar to keep track.
According to the US magazine “Real Simple,” the green color of leaves comes from chlorophyll, and yellowing leaves indicate that chlorophyll is obstructed, signaling the plant’s distress.
Expert Eliza Blank mentioned, “The specific reasons for yellowing leaves may vary depending on the plant type, as each plant has its unique requirements and sensitivities.”
Apart from watering issues, common causes of yellowing leaves include:
– Excessive sunlight can result in pale or wilted leaves; insufficient light can also impact plant growth adversely. Some plants require ample sunlight, while others thrive in shaded areas. Understanding the light requirements of each plant and following recommendations is crucial.
Blank added, “Pests like spider mites or aphids sucking on plant juices can cause leaves to yellow. Fungal or bacterial infections can also lead to yellow spots on leaves or overall yellowing.”
A lack of nitrogen, iron, or magnesium can lead to yellowing of plant leaves. Ensure that the potting soil contains sufficient nutrients as the primary source of nourishment for plants. Additionally, plants can derive nutrients from water and air.
Just like humans, plants do not thrive in extreme temperatures. For instance, tropical plants may develop yellow leaves if exposed to cold temperatures. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures may turn leaves brown.
Regularly observe plants for early signs and adjust care routines accordingly. This includes monitoring for pests, wilting, changes in leaf color, and early signs of dryness or brown spots on leaves. Typically, addressing yellowing leaves early on offers a chance for recovery.
If you notice the following signs in your plants, it may be too late for rescue:
– Most or all leaves have turned severely yellow or brown.
– Stem or root rot, indicating severe decay.
– Strong unpleasant odor emitting from the plant (often a sign of severe root rot disease).
– Lack of regrowth or signs of recovery after prolonged care efforts.