Revive your Aglaonemas glow —learn why its leaves turn yellow and how to ensure they stay brilliantly red.
Aglaonemas, also known as Chinese evergreens, are extremely popular houseplants thanks to their easy care requirements and attractive foliage However, even the most novice plant parent may notice their aglaonema’s leaves turning yellow at some point.
Yellowing leaves on your aglaonema is often a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of yellowing aglaonema leaves and provide actionable solutions to restore the health and beauty of your plant
Overwatering
Overwatering is one of the most common reasons for yellowing leaves on aglaonemas. These tropical plants thrive in well-draining soil and can easily become oversaturated if too much water is provided.
Excess moisture prevents the roots from getting the oxygen they need Root rot soon sets in, making it impossible for the plant to absorb nutrients and water properly Without these essentials, the leaves turn yellow and eventually die.
Solution: Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Check by inserting your finger into the pot. If it comes out clean, hold off on watering. Ensure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Underwatering
While overwatering is a prime suspect, inadequate water can also cause yellowing. If an aglaonema doesn’t get sufficient moisture, its leaves will start to droop and turn yellow. This happens as the plant goes into survival mode in an effort to conserve whatever water remains within its tissues.
Solution: Water thoroughly as soon as the top couple inches of soil become dry. Always check the moisture level before adding water to prevent oversaturation.
Low Humidity
Aglaonemas prefer average to high humidity levels around 50-60%. In dry indoor environments, you may notice browning leaf tips and edges, followed by yellowing of the entire leaf.
When humidity is too low, the plant loses moisture faster than it can be absorbed by the roots. This leads to dehydration and causes the leaves to yellow.
Solution: Use a humidifier to raise humidity levels around your aglaonema. Group plants together to create a microclimate. Place pots on pebble trays filled with water. Mist the leaves frequently with room temperature water.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Lack of important nutrients can also lead to yellowing leaves. Aglaonemas need a balance of essential macro and micronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and manganese.
Deficiencies usually arise due to improper pH, overwatering, underwatering, or lack of fertilization. Without adequate nutrients, growth and functions begin to decline.
Solution: Test soil pH and amend if needed – aglaonemas prefer a slightly acidic pH around 6.0-6.5. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during spring and summer. Address improper watering issues.
Pest Infestations
Common houseplant pests like spider mites, aphids, thrips and mealybugs can all infest aglaonemas. They suck out the sap from leaves and stems, causing stippling, discoloration, distortion, and yellowing of the foliage.
Solution: Take action at the first signs of infestation like webbing, sticky residue or visible bugs. Wipe leaves down with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove heavily damaged leaves. Isolate affected plants away from healthy ones.
Diseases
Aglaonemas can fall victim to certain bacterial and fungal diseases that also manifest through yellowing leaves. These include root rot, leaf spot and blight. High moisture levels create optimal conditions for pathogens to thrive.
Solution: Improve air circulation and reduce moisture. Remove and destroy affected leaves. Disinfect tools after use. Space plants properly to prevent overcrowding. Apply appropriate fungicides or bactericides if disease is widespread.
Cold Damage
Aglaonemas are tropical plants that prefer temperatures between 60-85°F. Prolonged exposure to temperatures lower than 55°F can stress the plant, causing leaf yellowing and drop.
Drafty windows, cold outdoor environments if moved outside too early in spring, or positioning near air vents/doors can chill sensitive aglaonemas.
Solution: Move plants away from drafts and vents directing cold air. Maintain optimal temperatures year round. Acclimate plants slowly before moving outdoors. Bring plants in before temperatures drop too low.
Sunburn
While they do best in bright, indirect light, too much direct sun can scorch aglaonema leaves. Initially, you’ll notice light brown spots that eventually spread. The burned sections then turn yellow, dry out and die.
Solution: Filter harsh sunlight with sheer curtains. Move plants back from bright southern or western windows. Rotate pots regularly so no one side gets too much light. Stick with north or east facing windows.
Normal Leaf Aging
As part of their natural growth habit, older leaves on aglaonemas will gradually yellow and drop off. This is especially common on mature plants that have reached their maximum size within their environment.
Solution: Prune old leaves to maintain appearance and promote new growth. As long as it’s just a leaf here and there, and the rest of the plant appears healthy, it’s nothing to worry about.
Tips to Keep Your Aglaonema Leaves Green
- Allow soil to dry out between waterings and always drain excess water
- Maintain indoor humidity around 50-60%
- Provide bright, indirect light from an east or north window
- Apply balanced liquid fertilizer monthly in spring/summer
- Inspect regularly for pests and diseases
- Prune old leaves to encourage new growth
- Keep temperatures consistently between 65-80°F
- Avoid direct sun exposure which can burn leaves
- Re-pot in fresh soil every 2-3 years as needed
- Rotate plant periodically to ensure even light exposure
When to Be Concerned About Yellow Leaves
While an occasional yellow leaf is normal, take note if yellowing is:
- On many leaves at the same time
- Rapidly spreading from old to new growth
- Accompanied by wilting, drooping, or other signs of distress
- Affecting the leaf veins and stems as well as the blades
This indicates a more serious underlying issue that needs troubleshooting. Don’t hesitate to take action to get your aglaonema back to good health.
With a better understanding of what causes yellowing leaves, you can now confidently diagnose problems and take the right steps to nurture your aglaonemas. Pay close attention to their care needs, and you’ll be rewarded with lush, vibrant plants.
Correcting Watering Practices
Watering is less of an exact science and more of a nuanced art. If your plants soil feels like the Sahara, its time for a deep drink. Conversely, if its more swamp than soil, hold off on the hydration. Remember, soggy roots are about as healthy for your plant as waterlogged fries are appetizing.
Diagnosing the Cause of Yellowing Leaves
Yellow leaves might be crying out for more light. If your Red Siam Aurora Aglaonema is throwing shade by turning yellow, its likely not getting enough rays to fuel its photosynthesis party. Look for leggy stems or leaves reaching for the light as a tell-tale sign.
Overwatering is the equivalent of giving your plant a bath with its socks on – uncomfortable and unnecessary. Yellow leaves can be a sign of root rot from too much H2O. Conversely, underwatering leaves your plant thirstier than a cactus in the desert, leading to droopy, yellow leaves.
If your plant is yellowing, it might be missing its multivitamins. Nutrient deficiencies can leave leaves pale and sickly. A balanced diet is key, so dont skimp on the fertilizer – but dont go overboard either. Think of it as a sprinkle of seasoning, not the whole spice rack.
Too hot or too cold, and your plants leaves will turn as yellow as a school bus. Temperature stress is like an unwanted sauna or ice bath for your plant. Keep it cozy, away from drafts and radiators, and youll avoid those yellow flags.
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FAQ
How do you fix yellow leaves on Aglaonema?
What does an overwatered Aglaonema look like?
What mineral is lacking when a plant leaves turn yellow?
What is the solution for yellow leaves in plants?
Why is my Aglaonema turning yellow?
As usual, during winter, you can allow the plant to dry up a bit as it won’t need watering anywhere near as often. The humidity level could be affecting your Aglaonema because low humidity and dry soil cause the foliage to brown on their edges which then can turn yellow later on.
Why are my red Aglaonema leaves turning brown?
Red Aglaonema plant benefits from plant foods on spring and summer months, typically the general houseplant fertilizer type. Red Aglaonema plant also requires extra care to prevent “tipping” or turning of the tip of the leaves into brown color. There are various reasons that cause “tipping” in leaves. One is because of too much water.
Why are the leaves of Aglaonema Droopy?
The leaves of Aglaonema plant may suddenly become droopy. This can happen normally to plants for several reasons, and it can be fixed easily. One reason for limp and drooping leaves is dry soil. Although overwatering is not ideal for the plant, it is also not good if the soil becomes too dry.
Why do Aglaonema leaves burn?
Too much sunlight exposure may cause the leaves to burn. On the other hand, there is no reason to worry if your place is not bright. This type of Aglaonema tolerates low light and artificial light, making it an ideal option for offices and windowless spaces. This plant wants thorough and consistent water when soil is dry.