What to Do When the Leaves of Flowers Turn Yellow in Summer
During the high temperatures of summer, many flower enthusiasts find that the leaves of their plants exhibit abnormal yellowing. This yellowing not only affects the ornamental value but may also indicate a health crisis in the plant. This article will systematically analyze the causes of yellowing leaves in flowers and provide scientific solutions from three dimensions: environmental control, water management, and nutrient supply.
One, Key Elements of Environmental Control
1.1 Humidity Management
Modern living spaces commonly use air conditioning for cooling, leading to indoor humidity often below 40%. However, most ornamental leaf plants require a humidity environment of 60%-80%. It is recommended to adjust humidity through timed misting (avoiding the strong sunlight period at noon), placing humidifiers, or setting up water tray pedestals. For water trays, ensure the water level does not touch the pot bottom and use pebbles as an isolation layer.
1.2 Ventilation Management
Enclosed environments can easily cause fungal diseases. It is recommended to ensure 3-4 hours of air circulation daily. Use a circulating fan at low speed, avoiding direct blows to the plants. Special attention should be paid to shade-loving plants such as bamboo and ferns, which should be placed in well-ventilated areas with scattered light.
Two, Scientific Water Management
2.1 Control of Watering Frequency
Use the "Two-Finger Test": Insert the index and middle fingers into the potting soil 2-3 centimeters and feel the moisture. Succulent plants need to be watered only after complete drying, while moisture-loving plants like pothos should be kept slightly moist. It is recommended to water in the early morning (6-8 am) or after 6 pm in the evening during summer, avoiding high-temperature evaporation.
2.2 Optimization of Drainage System
Improve the potting soil formula by adding 30% perlite or vermiculite to enhance breathability. Regularly check the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot and use ceramic stones to form a drainage layer. If waterlogging is found, immediately remove the pot and dry the roots, trim the decayed roots, and use carbendazim for disinfection.
Three, Nutrient Supply Strategies
3.1 Adjustment of Fertilizing Cycle
During the high-temperature period of summer (continuous 32°C or above), most plants enter a semi-dormant state. Foliar plants can be switched to applying a balanced liquid fertilizer with 1/2 concentration of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium once a month, while flowering plants should pause the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers. It is recommended to use bio-stimulants like alginate to enhance stress resistance.
3.2 Supplement of Trace Elements
Yellow leaves may reflect a deficiency in elements such as iron and magnesium. This can be addressed by foliar application of chelated iron (0.1% concentration) or applying acidic fertilizers containing sulfur powder to adjust the soil pH value. It is recommended to use an EC pen to test soil salinity every quarter; when the EC value exceeds 2.0 mS/cm, leaching treatment should be performed.
By systematically investigating the three elements of environment, water, and nutrition, more than 80% of the yellowing leaf issues in summer can be effectively improved. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log, recording data such as temperature and humidity changes, and watering and fertilizing times, to gradually master the growth patterns of different plants. When yellowing is accompanied by abnormal symptoms like spots and curling, timely pest and disease detection should be conducted.