Why Are Your African Milk Plant Leaves Turning Yellow: Causes and Solutions

African Milk Plant, also known as Euphorbia Trigona, is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and low maintenance needs. However, one of the most common problems that plant owners face is the yellowing of their plant’s leaves. If you’re experiencing this issue and wondering what’s causing it, keep reading to find out.

Causes of Yellowing Leaves in African Milk Plants

Overwatering: Overwatering is the most common reason why African Milk Plant leaves turn yellow. This plant doesn’t need a lot of water and can easily succumb to root rot if it’s overwatered. If you notice that the soil is constantly wet or the pot doesn’t have proper drainage, your plant may be suffering from overwatering.
Underwatering: Alternatively, if you’re not watering your African Milk Plant enough, its leaves will start turning yellow and eventually fall off. This happens because the plant is trying to conserve water by shedding its leaves.
Lack of sunlight: African Milk Plants love bright light, but they can also thrive in low light conditions. However, if they don’t receive enough sunlight, their leaves may start turning yellow.
Temperature stress: African Milk Plants prefer warm temperatures and don’t do well in cold environments. If your plant is exposed to cold drafts or temperatures below 60°F, its leaves may turn yellow.
Pest infestation: Mites and mealybugs are common pests that can infest African Milk Plants and cause their leaves to turn yellow.

Solutions for Yellowing Leaves in African Milk Plants

Adjust watering: To fix overwatering, reduce the frequency of watering and make sure the soil has proper drainage. For underwatering, increase the frequency of watering and ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Provide proper lighting: African Milk Plants need bright, indirect light to thrive. Place them near a window that receives plenty of sunlight or invest in grow lights if you don’t have access to natural light.
Maintain optimal temperature: Keep African Milk Plants in warm environments with temperatures between 65°F and 85°F. Avoid exposing them to cold drafts or temperatures below 60°F.
Treat pest infestations: Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of mealybugs or mites. You can also wipe down your plant with a damp cloth to remove any visible pests.

FAQs

Q: How often should I water my African Milk Plant?

A: Water your African Milk Plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: Can I keep my African Milk Plant outdoors?

A: African Milk Plants can be kept outdoors during the summer months but should be brought indoors once temperatures drop below 60°F.

Q: How often should I fertilize my African Milk Plant?

A: Fertilize your African Milk Plant once every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Q: Can I propagate my African Milk Plant?

A: Yes! African Milk Plants can be propagated through stem cuttings. Simply cut a stem from the parent plant and let it callus over for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil.

In conclusion, yellowing leaves in African Milk Plants are usually caused by over or underwatering, lack of sunlight, temperature stress, or pest infestations. By addressing these issues and providing proper care, you can ensure that your plant remains healthy and vibrant for years to come.