Why Are Your Calathea Zebra Plant Leaves Turning Yellow:
Causes and Solutions

Calathea Zebra plants are known for their beautiful, striped foliage and are a popular choice among indoor plant enthusiasts. However, if you notice that the leaves on your Calathea Zebra plant are turning yellow, it can be a cause for concern. In this article, we will discuss the possible causes of yellowing leaves on your Calathea Zebra plant and provide solutions to help you revive your plant.

Overwatering or Underwatering

One of the most common reasons why Calathea Zebra leaves turn yellow is due to overwatering or underwatering. Calathea plants prefer consistently moist soil but do not tolerate waterlogged soil or dry soil. If the soil is too wet, it can cause root rot, which can lead to yellowing leaves. On the other hand, if the soil is too dry, the plant will not receive enough water, causing the leaves to wilt and turn yellow.

Solution

To solve this problem, it is essential to determine whether you are overwatering or underwatering your Calathea Zebra plant. Check the soil moisture level with a moisture meter or by sticking your finger into the soil. If the soil is dry, water your plant thoroughly until water drains out of the drainage holes. If the soil is wet, allow it to dry out partially before watering again. It is also important to ensure that your pot has proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Low Humidity

Calathea Zebra plants require high humidity levels to thrive. Low humidity levels can cause the leaves to curl up and turn yellow. This is because low humidity levels can cause the plant to lose moisture through transpiration, leading to dehydration and stress.

Solution

To increase humidity levels around your Calathea Zebra plant, you can place a humidifier near the plant or group several plants together to create a microclimate with higher humidity levels. You can also place a tray of water near the plant or mist the leaves regularly with a spray bottle filled with distilled water.

Lack of Nutrients

Calathea Zebra plants require regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and vibrant foliage. If your plant is not receiving enough nutrients, its leaves may turn yellow.

Solution

Feed your Calathea Zebra plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and once a month during the dormant season (fall and winter). Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how much fertilizer to use and when to apply it.

Pest Infestation

Another reason why Calathea Zebra leaves turn yellow is due to pest infestations. Common pests that attack Calathea plants include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can cause leaf discoloration, leaf drop, and stunted growth.

Solution

Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pest infestation, such as webs, white cottony masses, or sticky residue on the leaves. If you detect any pests, isolate your plant from other plants immediately and treat it with an insecticide specifically formulated for houseplants. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying insecticides.

FAQ

Q: Can I save my Calathea Zebra if its leaves have turned completely yellow?

A: If all of your Calathea Zebra’s leaves have turned completely yellow and are crispy to the touch, it may be too late to save it. However, if only some of the leaves have turned yellow and there are still healthy leaves on the plant, you can try to revive it by addressing the underlying cause of the yellowing.

Q: How often should I water my Calathea Zebra?

A: Calathea Zebra plants prefer consistently moist soil but not waterlogged soil. Water your plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: Should I mist my Calathea Zebra’s leaves?

A: Yes, misting your Calathea Zebra’s leaves regularly can increase humidity levels around the plant and prevent leaf curling and discoloration. Use distilled water to avoid mineral buildup on the leaves.

In conclusion, yellowing leaves on your Calathea Zebra plant can indicate various problems that need attention. By identifying and addressing the underlying cause of yellowing leaves promptly, you can help your plant recover and thrive once again.