What to Do When Your Plant’s Leaves Start Turning Yellow?

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Seeing your plant’s leaves turn yellow can be worrying, but it doesn’t always mean your plant is dying. Yellowing leaves (chlorosis) can be caused by various factors, including watering issues, nutrient deficiencies, or environmental stress. Identifying the root cause is the key to reviving your plant. This guide will help you understand why leaves turn yellow and how to fix the problem.

1. Overwatering or Underwatering

Overwatering Symptoms:

  • Leaves become soft, yellow, and droopy.
  • Soil remains constantly wet and may develop mold.
  • Roots can rot, leading to plant decline.

Solution:

  • Check the soil moisture before watering. Water only when the top inch of soil is dry.
  • Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water buildup.
  • Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.

Underwatering Symptoms:

  • Leaves become dry, crispy, and yellow.
  • Soil is very dry and compact.
  • The plant looks wilted and droopy.

Solution:

  • Water deeply until water drains from the bottom of the pot.
  • Use a self-watering pot if you often forget to water.
  • Mist plants that require higher humidity.

2. Nutrient Deficiencies

Nitrogen Deficiency (Most Common)

  • Older leaves turn yellow first.
  • Plant growth slows, and new leaves remain small.

Fix: Use a balanced fertilizer or add compost to enrich the soil.

Iron Deficiency

  • Young leaves turn yellow but veins remain green.

Fix: Apply an iron supplement or adjust soil pH to 6.0-6.5 for better nutrient absorption.

Magnesium Deficiency

  • Yellowing starts at the edges of older leaves.

Fix: Add Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) to the soil.

3. Lack of Sunlight

Symptoms:

  • Leaves turn pale yellow and fall off.
  • The plant leans toward the light.

Solution:

  • Move the plant to a brighter location.
  • Use grow lights for plants in dark areas.
  • Rotate the plant weekly for even light exposure.

4. Temperature Stress

Symptoms:

  • Sudden yellowing after exposure to cold drafts or heatwaves.
  • Leaves curl, droop, or fall off.

Solution:

  • Keep plants away from heaters, AC vents, and open windows.
  • Maintain a stable temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C).

5. Pests and Diseases

Common Pests That Cause Yellowing:

  • Spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies suck nutrients from leaves.
  • Fungal infections lead to yellow spots and decay.

Solution:

  • Inspect leaves regularly for small bugs or webbing.
  • Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap to eliminate pests.
  • Improve air circulation to prevent fungal growth.

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