The glossy, green leaves of Chinese evergreens make them a popular indoor houseplant. But with time, these leaves have a tendency to turn yellow, as many gardeners have seen. Numerous things, such as excessive watering, exposure to bright sunshine, or a deficiency in soil nutrients, might contribute to this. The causes of Chinese evergreen leaves becoming yellow and what you can do to stop them will be discussed in this blog article.
The Chinese Evergreen Is Not Getting Enough Water
Yellowing leaves on your Chinese Evergreen are often a sign of moisture stress. This occurs when the plant is not getting enough water, causing the leaves to droop in an effort to conserve water.
As the Chinese Evergreen becomes drier, the leaves will turn yellow before eventually falling off. To ensure your plant is getting enough water, check the soil with your finger and establish a regular watering schedule.
Other signs of moisture stress include curling, drooping, and crispy-looking leaves. You should water your Chinese Evergreen every five to 10 days, depending on how much light/heat the plant is getting.
The Dangers of Overwatering Your Chinese Evergreen
Overwatering your Chinese Evergreen plant can cause the leaves to turn yellow and wilt. This is a clear indication that the plant is suffocating in waterlogged soil.
To fix this, reduce the frequency of watering and ensure that the soil is well-draining. A good way to check if the plant needs water is to stick your finger in the soil – if it feels moist, hold off on watering for a few more days.
Nutrient Deficiency in the Chinese Evergreen
Deficiencies of nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, and iron could be responsible for the yellow leaves on your Chinese Evergreen. The most notable culprits, as far as deficiency goes, are nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, and iron.
Deficits manifest themselves as chlorosis, and yellowing of the leaves around their veins. This gives them a distinct appearance, making them easier to diagnose.
The soil will need better-balanced fertilizer or some good, old-fashioned fertilizer to address nutrient deficiencies. A nutrient may be inhibited from being absorbed if there is too much of it. It is important to keep everything in balance.
How Lack of Light Can Harm Your Chinese Evergreen
Plants will not produce enough chlorophyll if they do not receive enough light. Chinese Evergreens will suffer from yellowing leaves and poor health as a result.
The light should be adequate for your plants but not too much or too direct, depending on the type of plant. The Chinese Evergreen does well in bright indirect light.
Lighter-green varieties are tolerant of lower light levels, while darker-green varieties require brighter lighting to retain their colors and patterns. Avoid placing plants in direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn.
Your Chinese Evergreen Is Getting Too Much Light
Despite the fact that your Chinese Evergreen needs light to survive, there is such a thing as too much light. Sunlight that is too bright or excessive will not benefit your plants but instead cause them to overheat and get sunburned.
Unless they love direct sunlight, don’t place plants directly in the sun. In terms of houseplants, make sure that they are at least a few feet away from windows and that they have enough light. The leaves should be given a break from being overheated and yellowing.
Consequences of Improper Soil pH for Your Chinese Evergreen
It is the pH of the soil that determines the preference of any plant, and it ranges anywhere between 1-14, usually somewhere in the middle.
The soil’s acidity or alkalinity can cause discomfort if it is too alkaline at 14. It is possible that the roots of the plant might even have difficulty absorbing the necessary nutrients from the soil.
The yellowing of a plant’s leaves can be attributed to this factor. Chinese Evergreen prefers to grow in slightly acidic soil, with a soil pH of around 6.0 to 6.5. You can test the pH of your soil with a pH tester you can purchase online or at a store.
Yellow leaves are unlikely to appear if pH is within the correct range. You might just be able to balance it out properly if it’s too acidic or too alkaline.
Dealing With Pests and Disease On Your Chinese Evergreen
Pests are usually responsible for yellowing leaves on your Chinese Evergreen, so you can easily spot them. It is common for yellow spots to appear around bite marks and bullet marks on plant leaves.
It is possible to see yellowing foliage, as well as the pest itself, if you look closely. In general, aphids, whiteflies, scaly bugs, spider mites, and thrips are the most common pests. There are numerous species of winged bugs, as well as those that look like scales, fluff, or tiny winged insects.
A simple pesticide will usually solve most pest problems. Neem oil is a natural pesticide that can replace chemical pesticides. It may also be possible to remove the stain with simple dish soap and water. There are quite a few pests around, and they are normally easy to get rid of.
Is It Possible for Yellowing leaves To Turn Green Again?
While it’s unlikely that yellow leaves will revert back to their vibrant green color, there’s still hope for your Chinese Evergreen.
By identifying the cause of the yellowing and taking action to address it, you can prevent the spread of other leaves. And with a quick pruning of the yellowed leaves, your Chinese Evergreen will have the opportunity for a fresh start and new growth.
Don’t let a few yellow leaves signify the end for your plants, take action and enjoy lush greenery once again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Evergreen
What are the care requirements for Chinese Evergreens?
Chinese Evergreens prefer bright, indirect sunlight and should be watered when the top layer of soil is dry. The soil should also be kept slightly moist but not soggy.
How often should I fertilize my Chinese Evergreen?
Chinese Evergreens should be fertilized every two to three months during the spring and summer months with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.
Is it necessary to prune my Chinese Evergreen?
Pruning is not necessary for Chinese Evergreens, but it can be beneficial to help maintain the desired shape of your plant.
How do I know if my Chinese Evergreen is getting enough light?
If your Chinese Evergreen’s leaves are turning yellow, it may be a sign that it is not getting enough light. Move your plant to an area with more indirect sunlight.
