Why Are Your Airplane Plant Leaves Turning Yellow:
Causes and Solutions

Airplane plants, also known as spider plants, are popular indoor plants known for their air-purifying qualities and ease of care. However, yellow leaves on your airplane plant may indicate that something is wrong. In this article, we will discuss the causes of yellow leaves on airplane plants and provide solutions to help revive your plant.

Causes of Yellow Leaves on Airplane Plants

Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common causes of yellow leaves on airplane plants. When the roots are constantly wet, they can’t get enough oxygen, and the plant may start to wilt or turn yellow. To avoid overwatering, make sure the soil is dry before watering again. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Underwatering

Underwatering is another common cause of yellow leaves on airplane plants. When a plant is not getting enough water, it can start to wilt and turn yellow. To avoid underwatering, make sure you water your plant regularly and thoroughly. Check the soil moisture level regularly and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Too Much Direct Sunlight

Airplane plants prefer bright but indirect light. If they are exposed to too much direct sunlight, their leaves can burn and turn yellow. To avoid this, place your plant in a location with bright but indirect light.

Lack of Nutrients

Airplane plants require nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to grow healthy leaves. If your plant is not getting enough nutrients, its leaves may turn yellow. To provide your plant with the necessary nutrients, fertilize it every two weeks during the growing season.

Pests

Pests like spider mites and mealybugs can infest airplane plants and cause yellow leaves. These pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually die. To prevent pests from infesting your plant, keep it clean and dust-free.

Solutions for Yellow Leaves on Airplane Plants

Adjust Watering

If overwatering or underwatering is causing your airplane plant’s leaves to turn yellow, adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and make sure you water your plant regularly and thoroughly.

Move the Plant

If your airplane plant is getting too much direct sunlight, move it to a location with bright but indirect light.

Fertilize Your Plant

If lack of nutrients is causing your airplane plant’s leaves to turn yellow, fertilize it every two weeks during the growing season.

Treat Pests

If pests are causing your airplane plant’s leaves to turn yellow, treat them with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

FAQ

Q: Can I save my airplane plant if all its leaves have turned yellow?

A: It depends on the severity of the damage. If only some of the leaves have turned yellow, you can prune them off and take steps to correct the problem. If all the leaves have turned yellow, it may be difficult to revive your plant.

Q: How often should I water my airplane plant?

A: Water your airplane plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Q: Can I use tap water to water my airplane plant?

A: Yes, but let it sit for 24 hours before using it to allow any chlorine or fluoride to evaporate.

Q: How often should I fertilize my airplane plant?

A: Fertilize your airplane plant every two weeks during the growing season.

Q: Can I use neem oil to treat pests on my airplane plant?

A: Yes, neem oil is effective against spider mites and other common pests that infest indoor plants.

In conclusion, yellow leaves on your airplane plant can indicate various problems. By identifying the cause of yellowing leaves and taking corrective action promptly, you can help restore the health of your beloved indoor plant.