What Causes the Leaves of a Fortune Tree to Turn White
The Fortune Tree, a common indoor green plant, often puzzles many growers when its leaves suddenly turn white. This abnormality may be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from diseases and pests to detailed care issues. This article will delve into the causes from four core dimensions and provide targeted solutions.
One: Leaf Whitening Caused by Disease Invasion
1.1 Identification of Powdery Mildew Symptoms
Fungal powdery mildew is a typical pathogen, with initial symptoms being snowflake-like white spots on the leaf surface, which then develop into a powdery mold layer as the mycelium spreads. High humidity (65-75% humidity) and poor ventilation are the main triggers, with special attention needed for the undersides of leaves.
1.2 Scientific Control Measures
Immediately remove the affected leaves at the onset of the disease and alternately spray with a 40% carbendazim 800x solution or a 25% pyraclostrobin 1500x solution, once a week for three weeks. Increase plant spacing and improve air circulation.
Two: Abnormal White Spots Caused by Pest Infestation
2.1 Identification of Cottony Scale Insects
This type of white scale insect often gathers on the leaf veins, secreting a waxy substance that forms a cottony covering. When the insect density is high, the entire leaf appears unhealthy gray-white, along with sticky honeydew.
2.2 Comprehensive Management Strategies
Physically remove the pests and then spray the undersides of the leaves with a 40% omethoate emulsion 1000x solution, and in severe cases, apply 15% aldicarb granules to the roots. Regularly wiping the leaf surface with alcohol wipes can prevent recurrence.
Three: Metabolic Abnormalities Caused by Nutritional Imbalance
3.1 The Dual Impact of Manganese
When the soil pH value is >6.5, manganese deficiency can lead to whitening, characterized by chlorosis between the veins; excessive manganese causes the leaf edges to turn white. It is recommended to use a professional soil tester to maintain a pH value between 5.5 and 6.0.
3.2 Precision Supplementation Plan
When manganese is deficient, spray 0.2% manganese sulfate solution on the leaf surface, once every 10 days; when excessive, rinse the potting soil with water 3-4 times and add organic matter to improve the soil structure.
Four: Leaf Burn Caused by Improper Light Management
4.1 Light Adaptation Period Management
When a plant that has been in the shade for a long time is suddenly exposed to strong light (>30000 lux) for 2-3 days, it will develop bleached spots. Gradual light adaptation should be practiced, increasing direct sunlight by 1 hour each day until reaching 4 hours daily.
4.2 Scientific shading Techniques
Use a white shading net with 40% light transmission to maintain light intensity between 15000-20000 lux. The east-facing windowsill is the best placement, avoiding direct sunlight from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
By systematically checking for diseases and pests, nutritional supply, and light conditions, the whitening issue of the Fortune Tree leaves can be effectively resolved. It is recommended to perform leaf cleaning, soil testing, and other preventive maintenance monthly, keeping the environmental humidity between 40-60% and the temperature between 18-28°C for ideal growth conditions. Immediate intervention when issues are detected will help maintain the healthy, glossy green state of the Fortune Tree.