Why Are My Green Prayer Plant Leaves Turning Yellow?

Green prayer plants, also known as Maranta leuconeura, are popular houseplants due to their beautiful foliage and low-maintenance needs. However, it can be concerning when their leaves start to turn yellow. This article will explore the possible reasons why green prayer plant leaves turn yellow and what you can do about it.

Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common reasons for yellowing leaves in green prayer plants. When the soil is constantly wet, the roots can become waterlogged, leading to root rot. This can cause the plant to wilt and its leaves to turn yellow.

To avoid overwatering, make sure that the pot has good drainage and allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Also, make sure that you are not watering the plant too frequently.

Underwatering

On the other hand, underwatering can also cause green prayer plant leaves to turn yellow. When a plant doesn’t receive enough water, its leaves will start to wilt and turn yellow in an effort to conserve water.

To prevent underwatering, make sure that you water your green prayer plant regularly. However, be careful not to overwater it as well.

Low humidity

Green prayer plants are native to tropical regions, so they thrive in high humidity environments. If the air in your home is too dry, it can cause the plant’s leaves to turn yellow and brown at the tips.

To increase humidity for your green prayer plant, you can place a tray of pebbles filled with water near the plant or use a humidifier.

Lack of nutrients

Green prayer plants require certain nutrients to grow healthy and strong. If the soil is lacking in essential nutrients such as nitrogen or iron, it can cause the plant’s leaves to turn yellow.

To ensure that your green prayer plant has enough nutrients, you can fertilize it every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.

Pests

Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can also cause green prayer plant leaves to turn yellow. These insects feed on the plant’s sap, causing damage to the leaves and turning them yellow.

To get rid of pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. It’s important to treat the plant as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Disease

Diseases such as fungal infections can also cause green prayer plant leaves to turn yellow. Fungi thrive in moist environments, so overwatering can increase the risk of fungal infections.

To prevent fungal infections, make sure that the soil has good drainage and avoid getting water on the leaves. If your plant is already infected, you can use a fungicide to treat it.

Age

Sometimes, yellowing leaves on a green prayer plant can be a natural part of its growth cycle. As the plant ages, its lower leaves will naturally turn yellow and fall off.

If this is the case, there’s no need to worry. Simply remove the yellowing leaves and continue to care for your plant as usual.

FAQ

How often should I water my green prayer plant?

You should water your green prayer plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. This usually means watering once a week, but it can vary depending on factors such as humidity and temperature.

Can I propagate my green prayer plant?

Yes, you can propagate your green prayer plant by division or stem cuttings. Division involves separating the plant into two or more sections and planting them separately. Stem cuttings involve taking a cutting from the parent plant and rooting it in soil or water.

How much light does my green prayer plant need?

Green prayer plants prefer bright but indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, while too little light can cause them to become leggy and weak. Place your plant near a window that receives bright, indirect light.

Should I mist my green prayer plant?

Misting can help increase humidity for your green prayer plant, but it’s not necessary. If you have a humidifier or a tray of water nearby, that should be enough to keep the plant happy.