Why do plants turn yellow in winter? A comprehensive guide to preventing and treating yellow leaves in plants.

Causes and solutions for yellowing plants in winter

As the temperature dropped sharply, many plant lovers found that the leaves of green plants in their homes were yellowing. This is not only a visual aesthetic issue, but also may indicate a survival crisis for plants. This article will deeply analyze the five major causes of yellow leaves in winter and provide scientific and effective response plans. 1. The core inducement of yellow leaves of plants in winter 1.1 Normal metabolic cycle In winter, some plants will enter a semi-dormant state, and the natural metabolism of old leaves is normal. It is recommended to clean up fallen leaves once a week, focusing on observing the growth of new leaves. Evergreen plants such as green radish and spider plants need to be vigilant if large areas of yellow leaves appear. 1.2 Nutritional imbalance crisis Fertilization in winter needs to follow the "three-look" principle: look at the variety (leaf-viewing plants require nitrogen fertilizer), look at the status (stop fertilization during dormant period), and look at the temperature (stop fertilization below 15℃). It is recommended to use slow-release fertilizer, halving the amount according to the packaging instructions, and combining foliar spraying potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution. 2. Precise control of environmental factors 2.1 Coordinated management of temperature and humidity Heating rooms need to maintain the temperature difference between day and night ≤8℃, and use a humidifier to maintain the humidity of 40%-60%. At least 1.5 meters away from the radiator, hydroponic plants can be placed as natural humidity regulators. The low-temperature environment is insulated by the pot method, and the outer layer is filled with vermiculite or foam particles. 2.2 Scientific water management Winter watering follows the "five no watering" principles: no watering at temperatures below 10 ° C, no watering at pot soil, no watering at rainy days, no watering at night, and no watering at dormant plants. It is recommended to use the bamboo stick test method, insert it into the basin soil 2/3 of the depth, and observe the humidity after 5 minutes. 3. Response strategies for special circumstances 3.1 Emergency treatment of frostbite If freezing damage is found, immediately move the seedlings into an environment of 10-15℃ to slow down the seedlings, cut off the necrotic tissue, and apply fungicide. Use the "gradual heating method" to increase the temperature by 2-3℃ every day. Avoid exposure to the sun or baking at high temperatures. Severely damaged plants can keep healthy branches for cuttage backup. 3.2 The lighting optimization plan should ensure that light is scattered for more than 4 hours a day in winter. When using the plant fill light, a distance of 30cm must be maintained, and the light should not exceed 6 hours a day. Rotate the flowerpot 90° every half of the month to ensure uniform light reception, and reflectors can be installed on the south sill to enhance light.

Through precise control of temperature, humidity, light, water and fertilizer, combined with regular observation and preventive maintenance, plants can safely survive the winter. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log to record changes in environmental parameters and plant conditions, and gradually understand the key points of winter maintenance for different varieties.