Dealing with yellowing leaves: common causes

Yellow leaves are frustrating! Is it watering, light, nutrients, or pests? Share your diagnostic process.

Yellowing leaves can indeed be tricky to diagnose. Start by checking your watering routine; overwatering is a common culprit, so ensure the soil is well-draining and that you’re letting it dry out a bit between waterings. Next, assess the light conditions—plants that are getting too much direct sunlight or not enough light can both exhibit yellowing. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen, can also cause leaves to yellow, so consider using a balanced fertilizer if you suspect this might be the issue. Lastly, inspect for pests like aphids or spider mites, as they can stress the plant and lead to yellowing leaves. Keep an eye on the overall health of your plant to pinpoint the exact cause.

Another thing to consider is the temperature and humidity around your plant. Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can cause stress, leading to yellowing leaves. Additionally, if the air is too dry, especially in winter, it can affect the plant’s health. Make sure your plant is in a suitable environment, ideally with consistent temperatures and adequate humidity levels. If you’re growing indoors, using a humidifier or placing a tray of water nearby can help maintain the moisture.