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

African spear plants (Sansevieria cylindrica) are a popular indoor plant because of its unique and striking appearance. It’s also known as cylindrical snake plant or African spear plant, and it’s native to Africa. This plant is easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginners. However, like any plant, the African spear plant can experience some problems, such as yellowing leaves. In this article, we will discuss the possible causes of yellowing leaves in African spear plants and how to solve them.

Causes of Yellowing Leaves in African Spear Plants

Overwatering

One of the most common causes of yellowing leaves in African spear plants is overwatering. When you overwater your plant, the roots can’t absorb the excess water, causing them to rot. As a result, the plant can’t get enough nutrients, and the leaves start turning yellow.

Underwatering

On the other hand, underwatering can also cause the leaves to turn yellow. When you don’t water your African spear plant enough, the soil becomes dry, and the plant can’t absorb water and nutrients properly. This results in yellowing leaves.

Lack of Light

African spear plants need bright light to thrive. If your plant is not getting enough light, it can lead to yellowing leaves. The lack of light affects the plant’s ability to photosynthesize and produce energy, causing its leaves to turn yellow.

Pest Infestation

Another possible cause of yellowing leaves in African spear plants is pest infestation. Common pests that attack these plants include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can cause damage to the leaves, leading to yellowing.

Disease

African spear plants are susceptible to fungal infections such as root rot and leaf spot disease. These diseases can affect the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients and water from the soil. As a result, the leaves may start turning yellow.

Solutions for Yellowing Leaves in African Spear Plants

Watering

To solve yellowing leaves caused by overwatering or underwatering, you need to adjust your watering schedule. Water your African spear plant only when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Make sure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.

Lighting

If your African spear plant is not getting enough light, move it to a brighter spot in your house. These plants thrive in bright indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions.

Pest Control

If you suspect that pests are causing yellowing leaves on your African spear plant, inspect it carefully for signs of infestation such as webs or sticky residue. Treat your plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap according to manufacturer instructions.

Disease Control

If your African spear plant is suffering from root rot or leaf spot disease, remove any affected parts immediately and discard them properly. Then treat your plant with a fungicide according to manufacturer instructions.

FAQ

Q: Do African spear plants need fertilizer?
A: Yes, African spear plants benefit from occasional fertilization during their growing season (spring-summer). Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month diluted according to manufacturer instructions.

Q: Should I mist my African spear plant?
A: No, misting is not necessary for African spear plants since they prefer drier conditions.

Q: Can I propagate my African spear plant?
A: Yes, African spear plants are easy to propagate by dividing their rhizomes or by rooting leaf cuttings in soil.

In conclusion, yellowing leaves in African spear plants can be caused by various factors such as overwatering, underwatering, lack of light, pest infestation or disease. To solve this problem, you need to identify the cause and take appropriate measures such as adjusting watering schedules, providing adequate lighting or treating pests and diseases promptly. With proper care and attention, your African spear plant can continue to thrive and add beauty to your home.