Why Are My Chrysanthemum Plant Leaves Turning Yellow?

Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are beautiful flowering plants that can brighten up any garden or indoor space. However, if you notice that the leaves of your chrysanthemum plant are turning yellow, it can be a sign of a problem. In this article, we will discuss the most common reasons why chrysanthemum plant leaves turn yellow and how to fix them.

Overwatering

One of the most common reasons why chrysanthemum plant leaves turn yellow is overwatering. Chrysanthemums require well-draining soil and do not like to sit in water. When you overwater your chrysanthemum plant, it can cause the roots to become waterlogged, leading to root rot. This can cause the leaves to turn yellow as the plant is unable to absorb nutrients properly.

How to Fix Overwatering

To fix overwatering, you need to ensure that your chrysanthemum plant is not sitting in water. Check the drainage holes in the pot and make sure they are not blocked. Water your chrysanthemum plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Underwatering

On the other hand, if your chrysanthemum plant is not getting enough water, it can also cause the leaves to turn yellow. When a plant does not receive enough water, it cannot transport nutrients from the soil to the leaves properly.

How to Fix Underwatering

To fix underwatering, you need to ensure that your chrysanthemum plant is receiving enough water. Water your chrysanthemum plant regularly but do not let it sit in water. Check the top inch of soil and make sure it is moist but not waterlogged.

Nutrient Deficiency

Chrysanthemum plants require a balanced diet of nutrients to grow and thrive. If your chrysanthemum plant is not receiving enough nutrients, it can cause the leaves to turn yellow. The most common nutrient deficiencies in chrysanthemum plants are nitrogen, iron, and magnesium.

How to Fix Nutrient Deficiency

To fix nutrient deficiency, you need to ensure that your chrysanthemum plant is receiving a balanced diet of nutrients. You can use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for chrysanthemum plants. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully to avoid overfertilization.

Pests

Pests such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips can also cause the leaves of your chrysanthemum plant to turn yellow. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, which can cause damage to the leaves and stems.

How to Fix Pests

To fix pests, you need to identify the pest and use an appropriate insecticide or pesticide to get rid of them. You can also use natural remedies such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Disease

Chrysanthemum plants are susceptible to several diseases such as botrytis blight, powdery mildew, and fusarium wilt. These diseases can cause the leaves of your chrysanthemum plant to turn yellow.

How to Fix Disease

To fix disease, you need to identify the disease and use an appropriate fungicide or pesticide to get rid of it. You can also remove infected parts of the plant to prevent the disease from spreading.

FAQ

Can I save my chrysanthemum plant if the leaves have turned completely yellow?

It depends on the cause of the yellowing. If it is due to overwatering or underwatering, you may be able to save your chrysanthemum plant by correcting the watering schedule. However, if it is due to disease or pest infestation, it may be difficult to save the plant.

How often should I fertilize my chrysanthemum plant?

You should fertilize your chrysanthemum plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for chrysanthemum plants.

Can I prevent pests and diseases from affecting my chrysanthemum plant?

Yes, you can prevent pests and diseases from affecting your chrysanthemum plant by practicing good plant hygiene. This includes removing dead leaves and flowers, avoiding overwatering, and using a balanced fertilizer. You can also use natural remedies such as neem oil or insecticidal soap to prevent pests from infesting your plant.