Why Are the Leaves of Epipremnum Aureum Turning Yellow?
As a star variety of indoor green plants, Epipremnum aureum, with its lush vines, has become a favorite for home decoration. However, many plant enthusiasts find that carefully maintained Epipremnum aureum often exhibit yellowing leaves. This article will delve into the five core causes of yellowing leaves in Epipremnum aureum and provide targeted solutions to help you easily cultivate glossy, vibrant green Epipremnum aureum.
One: Yellowing Leaves Due to Temperature Imbalance
As a tropical plant, Epipremnum aureum thrives best in an environment of 18-28°C. When temperatures drop below 10°C in winter, the leaf cells can be damaged by low temperatures, causing the leaf edges to turn yellow and curl, and in severe cases, the entire plant to wilt. High temperatures above 35°C in summer can also lead to dehydrated yellowing of the leaves.
Temperature Regulation Tips
In winter, move Epipremnum aureum to a bright indoor location, use thickened pots or pot covers for insulation, and avoid direct contact with radiators. In summer, you can use the misting method to cool down, spraying water around the plant in the morning and evening when temperatures are lower, maintaining an air humidity of about 60%.
Two: Mismanagement of Watering
Improper watering is one of the most common causes of yellowing leaves in Epipremnum aureum. Long-term waterlogging can lead to root rot, initially causing new leaves to turn yellow, while long-term drought causes older leaves to turn yellow first. The ideal watering schedule should be adjusted according to the season: spring and autumn, 5-7 days/time; summer, 3-5 days/time; winter, 7-10 days/time.
Scientific Watering Plan
Use the "soaking pot method" to ensure even water penetration: place the pot in a container filled with water and soak for 15 minutes, then remove and drain after the surface soil is moist. Using a clay pot is more conducive to water evaporation, and plastic pots should have a layer of pebbles at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
Three: Impact of Improper Fertilization
Excessive fertilization can lead to an increase in the EC value of the soil, causing "fertilization burn" yellowing leaves, which manifest as leaf tips becoming crispy and accompanied by white crystalline substances. Insufficient fertilization can lead to overall yellowing, with new leaves being small and thin.
Accurate Fertilization Guidelines
Apply a diluted foliage plant-specific fertilizer once a month during the growing season, and stop fertilizing in winter. In case of fertilization burn, immediately flush the potting soil with water three times or replace 50% of the growing medium.
Four: Key Points for Light Control
Although Epipremnum aureum is shade-tolerant, long-term insufficient light can lead to hindered chlorophyll synthesis, causing overall yellowing of the plant. It is recommended to receive 3-4 hours of scattered light daily, and using a white reflective board can improve light utilization efficiency. Be careful to avoid direct midday strong light to prevent sunburn yellow spots.
Five: Pest and Disease Control
Pests such as spider mites and scale insects can吸食 the leaf juices, causing yellowing. Regularly wipe both sides of the leaves with a damp cloth, and immediately use neem oil or azadirachtin for biological control upon discovering pests. Leaf spot diseases can be prevented by spraying 800 times the concentration of carbendazim every two weeks.
By systematically adjusting the four elements of temperature, water, nutrients, and light, and combining pest and disease prevention, you can keep Epipremnum aureum green throughout the year. It is recommended to clean the leaves monthly, replace the topsoil every half year, and trim yellow leaves to promote the growth of new buds, ensuring that your Epipremnum aureum always exudes vitality.