There are other times when the problem is more of a mystery.
Growing plants is always a matter of patience.
Do your best to eliminate thesecommon reasons for yellowing leaves, then wait to see what happens.
The Spruce
If you have a plant with yellow leaves, check the soil in the pot.
Too much water can be just as damaging to leaves.
Without oxygen, roots start to die.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
Normal Aging
As many plants age, the lower leaves will turn yellow and drop off.
This is simply a normal part of their growth.
In this case, don’t worry.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
If the plant becomes too leggy, consider trimming back the main stem to promote new growth and bushiness.
Keep an eye on it to see if the yellow leaves spread any further.
It’s also a good idea to mist tropicals that you’re overwintering to increase the humidity.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
If this is your issue, there is a clue that it’s possible for you to look for.
The leaves near the window, for instance, are getting all the light and blocking the opposite side.
If this is the case, move the plant to a sunnier location and see how it does.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
If this is the problem, the plant’s top leaves may be the first to go yellow.
In other cases, you might notice an unusual pattern to the yellowing.
For instance, the veins may remain dark while the tissue between them turns yellow.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
The nutrients a plant requires varies based on the species and some are pickier than others.
It can be a good investment to purchase a small soil kit for at-home soil tests.
Being able to accurately pinpoint the needs of your plant will greatly help.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
This will help keep your plants happy and healthy.
This may be accompanied by deformed leaves and stems, as well as discolored flowers.
Check the neighboring plants to ensure the spread is contained.
The Spruce / Phoebe Cheong
Some remedies can involve fungicides, while others may require removing healthy parts and propagating.
Wash and sterilize any pruning tools or pots before using them on other plants.
Check under the leaves for any signs of fine webbing, which can indicate pests.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
Eliminate aphids and spider mites withinsecticidal soap.
It’s a normal way the plant shows it’s trying to settle into its new surroundings.
During this period, don’t fertilize your plant.
Overwatering.Missouri Botanical Garden,2020
Why Houseplants Drop Leaves.University of Vermont Department of Plant and Soil Science.
University of Missouri Extension.
Preventing and Managing Plant Diseases.University of Missouri Extension.
