{"id":1368,"date":"2023-04-20T13:15:42","date_gmt":"2023-04-20T13:15:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/?p=1368"},"modified":"2023-08-05T13:22:09","modified_gmt":"2023-08-05T13:22:09","slug":"why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Do Plant Leaves Turn Yellow?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>One of the most common issues that plant owners face is the yellowing of leaves, a symptom that can be both alarming and confusing. It can occur in houseplants, vegetable plants, and ornamental plants in the garden. This article aims to uncover the various reasons behind yellow leaves and provide practical solutions to keep your plants vibrant and healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#Understanding_Chlorosis\" title=\"Understanding Chlorosis\">Understanding Chlorosis<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#Common_Causes_of_Yellow_Leaves\" title=\"Common Causes of Yellow Leaves\">Common Causes of Yellow Leaves<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#How_to_Treat_and_Prevent_Yellow_Leaves\" title=\"How to Treat and Prevent Yellow Leaves\">How to Treat and Prevent Yellow Leaves<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#What_nutrient_deficiencies_cause_yellow_leaves\" title=\"What nutrient deficiencies cause yellow leaves?\">What nutrient deficiencies cause yellow leaves?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#How_often_should_I_water_my_plant_to_prevent_yellow_leaves\" title=\"How often should I water my plant to prevent yellow leaves?\">How often should I water my plant to prevent yellow leaves?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#My_plant_sits_near_a_window_with_plenty_of_sunlight_Why_are_its_leaves_still_turning_yellow\" title=\"My plant sits near a window with plenty of sunlight. Why are its leaves still turning yellow?\">My plant sits near a window with plenty of sunlight. Why are its leaves still turning yellow?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#Are_yellow_leaves_a_sign_of_a_pest_infestation\" title=\"Are yellow leaves a sign of a pest infestation?\">Are yellow leaves a sign of a pest infestation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#Can_yellow_leaves_turn_green_again\" title=\"Can yellow leaves turn green again?\">Can yellow leaves turn green again?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#Can_older_plants_naturally_have_yellow_leaves\" title=\"Can older plants naturally have yellow leaves?\">Can older plants naturally have yellow leaves?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#How_can_I_tell_if_my_plants_yellow_leaves_are_due_to_overwatering_or_underwatering\" title=\"How can I tell if my plant&#8217;s yellow leaves are due to overwatering or underwatering?\">How can I tell if my plant&#8217;s yellow leaves are due to overwatering or underwatering?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#How_can_I_improve_my_soils_drainage_to_prevent_yellow_leaves\" title=\"How can I improve my soil&#8217;s drainage to prevent yellow leaves?\">How can I improve my soil&#8217;s drainage to prevent yellow leaves?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#How_can_I_prevent_diseases_that_cause_yellow_leaves\" title=\"How can I prevent diseases that cause yellow leaves?\">How can I prevent diseases that cause yellow leaves?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/why-do-plant-leaves-turn-yellow\/#What_should_I_do_if_my_plants_leaves_are_turning_yellow_despite_providing_proper_care\" title=\"What should I do if my plant&#8217;s leaves are turning yellow despite providing proper care?\">What should I do if my plant&#8217;s leaves are turning yellow despite providing proper care?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_Chlorosis\"><\/span>Understanding Chlorosis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The technical term for the yellowing of plant leaves is &#8216;chlorosis&#8217;. This condition often indicates that the plant is stressed and can be triggered by various factors including nutrient deficiency, watering issues, disease, and pests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Causes_of_Yellow_Leaves\"><\/span>Common Causes of Yellow Leaves<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Overwatering or Underwatering:<\/strong> Both overwatering and underwatering can cause plant leaves to turn yellow. Overwatering can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot, which deprives roots of oxygen. On the other hand, underwatering can cause dehydration and wilting. It&#8217;s important to understand the specific watering needs of each plant as requirements can differ greatly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nutrient Deficiency:<\/strong> Plants need a variety of nutrients to maintain healthy growth. Most commonly, a nitrogen deficiency can cause leaves to yellow. But deficiencies of iron, magnesium, or zinc can also result in chlorosis. A soil test can determine if your soil lacks any essential nutrients, and then you can correct the imbalance using the right type of fertiliser.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Poor Drainage:<\/strong> Plants that sit in waterlogged soil for extended periods can develop yellow leaves due to a lack of oxygen reaching the roots. This issue can be solved by improving soil drainage or moving the plant to a well-draining area or pot.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Disease or Pests:<\/strong> Various diseases, such as fungal, bacterial, or viral infections, can cause yellow leaves. Pests, like aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies, can also trigger chlorosis. In these cases, appropriate treatment with fungicides, bactericides, or pesticides may be needed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Light Stress:<\/strong> Too much light (causing scorching) or too little light (causing insufficient photosynthesis) can both lead to yellow leaves. Assess your plant&#8217;s lighting conditions and adjust as necessary.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Natural Aging:<\/strong> Lastly, it&#8217;s important to note that lower leaves may turn yellow and drop off as a natural part of a plant&#8217;s life cycle, particularly in older plants.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Treat_and_Prevent_Yellow_Leaves\"><\/span>How to Treat and Prevent Yellow Leaves<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that we know why leaves might turn yellow let&#8217;s look at some possible remedies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Monitor Watering:<\/strong> Ensure you&#8217;re providing the right amount of water for your specific plant. Generally, it&#8217;s better to underwater than overwater. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering and ensure your pot or garden has good drainage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Test and Amend Your Soil:<\/strong> If you suspect nutrient deficiency, conduct a soil test. Based on the results, use a suitable fertiliser to correct any imbalances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Maintain Proper Lighting:<\/strong> Move your plant to an area with appropriate light conditions. Some plants thrive in direct sunlight, while others prefer partial shade.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pest and Disease Management:<\/strong> Regularly inspect your plants for signs of disease or pests. Early detection and treatment can save your plant&#8217;s life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Replace Old Soil:<\/strong> If your plant has been in the same soil for several years, consider replacing the soil or repotting the plant.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1691241409832\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_nutrient_deficiencies_cause_yellow_leaves\"><\/span><strong>What nutrient deficiencies cause yellow leaves?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yellow leaves can be caused by several nutrient deficiencies. Nitrogen deficiency is a common cause and usually results in older leaves turning yellow. Iron, magnesium, or zinc deficiencies can also lead to chlorosis. A soil test can help identify if your plant is suffering from a nutrient deficiency.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1691241429190\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_often_should_I_water_my_plant_to_prevent_yellow_leaves\"><\/span><strong>How often should I water my plant to prevent yellow leaves?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The frequency of watering depends on the type of plant, the season, and the environment. As a general rule, it&#8217;s better to underwater than overwater. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering your plant.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1691241440853\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"My_plant_sits_near_a_window_with_plenty_of_sunlight_Why_are_its_leaves_still_turning_yellow\"><\/span><strong>My plant sits near a window with plenty of sunlight. Why are its leaves still turning yellow?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Even if your plant is located near a sunny window, it could be receiving too much light, causing leaf scorch. Conversely, it might not be getting enough sunlight to perform photosynthesis efficiently, resulting in yellow leaves. Research your specific plant&#8217;s light needs to ensure it&#8217;s situated in the best location.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1691241456637\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_yellow_leaves_a_sign_of_a_pest_infestation\"><\/span><strong>Are yellow leaves a sign of a pest infestation?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, in some cases, pests can cause plant leaves to turn yellow. Pests such as aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies can suck the sap from plant leaves, causing them to turn yellow. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1691241461900\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_yellow_leaves_turn_green_again\"><\/span><strong>Can yellow leaves turn green again?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>In most cases, once a leaf turns yellow, it can&#8217;t revert to green. The aim should be to address the underlying issue causing the yellowing to prevent more leaves from changing colour. With appropriate care and intervention, new growth should be green and healthy.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1691241488091\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_older_plants_naturally_have_yellow_leaves\"><\/span><strong>Can older plants naturally have yellow leaves?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, as part of a plant&#8217;s natural life cycle, older leaves at the bottom of the plant can turn yellow and eventually fall off. This is especially true for houseplants. As long as your plant continues to produce new, healthy green leaves, this isn&#8217;t typically a cause for concern.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1691241499861\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_I_tell_if_my_plants_yellow_leaves_are_due_to_overwatering_or_underwatering\"><\/span><strong>How can I tell if my plant&#8217;s yellow leaves are due to overwatering or underwatering?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Both overwatering and underwatering can cause yellow leaves, but there are typically other signs. Overwatered plants may have wilting, soft leaves, and a musty smell. The soil may also be waterlogged. Underwatered plants typically have dry, brittle leaves and dry soil.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1691241519604\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_I_improve_my_soils_drainage_to_prevent_yellow_leaves\"><\/span><strong>How can I improve my soil&#8217;s drainage to prevent yellow leaves?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>If poor drainage is causing yellow leaves, consider adding organic material like compost or well-rotted manure to your soil. If you&#8217;re dealing with potted plants, ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes, or consider repotting in a potting mix designed for your specific type of plant.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1691241527914\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_I_prevent_diseases_that_cause_yellow_leaves\"><\/span><strong>How can I prevent diseases that cause yellow leaves?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Preventing diseases involves good plant care practices. Water your plants appropriately, maintain good airflow around your plants, avoid overhead watering, and regularly clean up dead leaves and plant debris. Also, consider using disease-resistant plant varieties.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1691241540057\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_I_do_if_my_plants_leaves_are_turning_yellow_despite_providing_proper_care\"><\/span><strong>What should I do if my plant&#8217;s leaves are turning yellow despite providing proper care?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>If your plant&#8217;s leaves continue to turn yellow despite your best care efforts, consider consulting a local extension service or a plant expert. They can help you identify any less common issues that may be causing the yellowing.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, yellow leaves are a common problem for gardeners and indoor plant enthusiasts alike. It&#8217;s a plant&#8217;s way of communicating that it&#8217;s in distress. By becoming a plant &#8216;detective&#8217; and identifying the potential cause, you can take the right steps to restore your plant&#8217;s health and prevent future yellowing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>One of the most common issues that plant owners face is the yellowing of leaves, a symptom that can be both alarming and confusing. It can occur in houseplants, vegetable plants, and ornamental plants in the garden. This article aims to uncover the various reasons behind yellow leaves and provide practical solutions to keep your [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1369,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[39,85],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1368"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1368"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1368\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1370,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1368\/revisions\/1370"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1369"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1368"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1368"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1368"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}