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

Updated: April 13, 2023

Angel plants, also known as Caladiums, are beautiful indoor plants with heart-shaped leaves that come in various colors. However, if you notice that your angel plant leaves are turning yellow, it could be a sign of an underlying problem. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of yellowing angel plant leaves and provide solutions to help you restore your plant’s health.

Causes of Yellowing Angel Plant Leaves

Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common reasons why angel plant leaves turn yellow. When you water your plant too often or give it too much water at once, it can lead to root rot. Over time, the roots will become damaged and unable to absorb nutrients and water from the soil, which will cause the leaves to turn yellow.

Underwatering

Underwatering is another common cause of yellowing angel plant leaves. When you don’t water your plant enough, it can become dehydrated and unable to carry out photosynthesis properly. This will cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually die off.

Poor Drainage

If your angel plant is not draining properly, it can lead to stagnant water in the soil. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi that can attack the roots, causing them to rot and the leaves to turn yellow.

Lack of Nutrients

Angel plants require specific nutrients to thrive. If your plant is not getting enough nutrients from the soil or if the soil is too alkaline or acidic, it can lead to yellowing leaves.

Pests

Pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can attack your angel plant and cause its leaves to turn yellow. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, which can weaken it and make it more susceptible to other problems.

Solutions for Yellowing Angel Plant Leaves

Adjust Watering Frequency

To avoid overwatering or underwatering your angel plant, make sure you water it only when the top inch of soil is dry. Use a watering can or a hose on a gentle setting to avoid damaging the roots or splashing water on the leaves.

Improve Drainage

If poor drainage is causing your angel plant’s leaves to turn yellow, repot it in well-draining soil. You can also add perlite or sand to the soil mix to improve drainage.

Check Nutrient Levels

Test the pH level of your angel plant’s soil using a soil testing kit. If the pH level is too high or too low, adjust it by adding lime or sulfur to the soil mix. You can also feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during its growing season.

Treat Pests

If pests are causing your angel plant’s leaves to turn yellow, isolate the affected plant and treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Make sure you follow the instructions on the label and repeat treatments as necessary.

FAQs

Q: Can I save my angel plant if its leaves have already turned yellow?

A: Yes, you can save your angel plant if its leaves have turned yellow. Identify the underlying problem and take appropriate measures to address it. With proper care, new healthy leaves should grow back.

Q: Can I cut off yellowed leaves from my angel plant?

A: Yes, you can cut off yellowed leaves from your angel plant using clean pruning shears. Make sure you cut close to the stem without damaging it.

Q: How often should I fertilize my angel plant?

A: You should fertilize your angel plant once a month during its growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during its dormant period (fall and winter).

In conclusion, yellowing angel plant leaves can be a sign of an underlying problem such as overwatering, underwatering, poor drainage, lack of nutrients, or pest infestation. To restore your plant’s health, adjust watering frequency, improve drainage, check nutrient levels, and treat pests if necessary. With proper care and attention, your beautiful angel plant should recover and thrive once again.

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