What Causes the Yellowing of Epipremnum aureum Leaves
Epipremnum aureum, as a common indoor ornamental plant, yellowing leaves are the most likely issue to occur during maintenance. This article deeply analyzes the causes of yellowing leaves through illustrated explanations and provides targeted solutions to help you quickly restore the vitality of the plant.
Relationship Between Lighting Conditions and Yellowing Epipremnum aureum Leaves
Manifestation of Sunburn Damage
When Epipremnum aureum leaves show brown spots or crispy edges, it is usually due to direct sunlight for more than 3 hours in summer. It is recommended to place it 1.5 meters away from east/north-facing windows and adjust the lighting with a sheer curtain with 40% light transmission.
Symptoms of Weak Light and Chlorosis
Small new leaves accompanied by overall yellowing indicate that the daily sunlight is insufficient for 2 hours. This can be improved by artificial lighting three times a week (LED plant lights 30 cm away from the leaves for 4 hours) to enhance photosynthetic efficiency.
Yellowing Leaves Mechanism Caused by Nutritional Imbalance
Recognition of Fertilizer Burn Symptoms
If the leaf tips turn yellow and spread downward within 7 days after fertilizing, you should immediately water the roots with clean water three times. It is recommended to apply a diluted 2000-fold liquid fertilizer for ornamental plants once a month during the growing season.
Comparison of Deficiency Symptoms
Uniform yellowing of old leaves is usually due to nitrogen deficiency, while yellowing between leaf veins is due to magnesium deficiency. This can be corrected by foliar application of a 0.1% magnesium sulfate solution or a compound fertilizer containing trace elements.
Key Points of Water Management
Scientific Watering Method
Use the "finger tip detection method": when the second joint of the index finger inserted into the potting soil does not feel moist, water thoroughly. Water every 5-7 days in summer and every 10-15 days in winter, maintaining the substrate moisture between 40%-60%.
Emergency Root Treatment
For severely rotting roots, the plant needs to be removed from the pot and the blackened roots pruned, then soaked in carbendazim before replanting in a new mixture of pearl rock and vermiculite at a ratio of 1:1.
Through systematic analysis, it can be seen that the yellowing of Epipremnum aureum leaves is essentially an early warning signal of an unbalanced maintenance environment. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log, recording data such as sunlight duration and watering frequency, and adjust seasonally. Usually, new leaves can be seen within 2-3 weeks. Special varieties like the Marble Queen Epipremnum aureum require additional attention to maintain the ambient humidity above 60%.