Why Are Your Balfour Aralia Plant Leaves Turning Yellow:
Causes and Solutions

Balfour Aralia, also known as Polyscias balfouriana, is a popular houseplant that features attractive deep green leaves with a glossy finish. However, it is not uncommon for the plant’s leaves to start turning yellow, which can be concerning for plant owners. In this article, we will explore the causes of yellowing leaves in Balfour Aralia plants and provide some solutions to help you restore your plant’s health.

Causes of Yellowing Leaves in Balfour Aralia Plants

1. Overwatering: Overwatering is a common cause of yellowing leaves in many houseplants, including Balfour Aralia. When you water the plant too frequently or give it too much water at once, the roots can become waterlogged, leading to root rot. As a result, the plant may develop yellow leaves that eventually fall off.

2. Underwatering: On the other hand, underwatering can also cause Balfour Aralia leaves to turn yellow. When the plant does not receive enough water, it cannot absorb nutrients properly, leading to nutrient deficiency and yellowing leaves.

3. Low Humidity: Balfour Aralia plants thrive in high humidity environments. When the air is too dry, the leaves may start to curl and turn yellow.

4. Pest Infestation: Spider mites and mealybugs are two common pests that can attack Balfour Aralia plants. These pests suck the sap from the plant’s leaves, causing them to discolor and eventually die off.

5. Disease: Fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew can also cause yellowing leaves in Balfour Aralia plants.

Solutions for Yellowing Leaves in Balfour Aralia Plants

1. Adjust watering habits: To prevent overwatering or underwatering, make sure you are watering your Balfour Aralia plant correctly. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions and avoid leaving excess water sitting in the saucer.

2. Increase humidity levels: To increase humidity levels around your plant, you can mist it regularly with a spray bottle or place a humidifier nearby.

3. Treat pest infestations: If you suspect your plant has a pest infestation, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to get rid of them.

4. Prune damaged leaves: If some of your Balfour Aralia’s leaves have already turned yellow or brown, prune them off to prevent further damage.

5. Treat fungal infections: If you suspect that your plant has a fungal infection, remove any affected leaves immediately and treat the plant with a fungicide spray.

FAQ

1. Is it normal for Balfour Aralia leaves to turn yellow? No, yellowing leaves in Balfour Aralia plants are usually a sign of an underlying problem such as overwatering, underwatering, low humidity, pest infestation, or disease.

2. Can I save my Balfour Aralia if its leaves have turned yellow? Yes, if you identify and address the underlying problem causing the yellowing leaves promptly, your plant has a good chance of recovering.

3. How often should I water my Balfour Aralia plant? Water your Balfour Aralia plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

4. How do I increase humidity levels around my Balfour Aralia plant? You can mist your plant regularly with a spray bottle or place a humidifier nearby to increase humidity levels around your Balfour Aralia plant.

5. What should I do if my Balfour Aralia plant has a pest infestation? Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to get rid of pests on your Balfour Aralia plant.