What to do if the leaves of the Money Tree turn white - Comprehensive Guide to Preventing and Treating White Leaves on Money Trees
How to solve the problem of the Money Tree leaves turning whiteWhen the leaves of the Money Tree show unusual white spots, it often indicates that the plant is facing multiple survival challenges. As a common indoor ornamental plant, the leaves of the Money Tree are not only the core organ for photosynthesis but also a natural alarm for the health status of the plant. This article will systematically analyze the four key factors causing white leaves and provide scientific solutions.I. Disease Control: Response Plan for Powdery Mildew Invasion1.1 Disease Symptoms and Transmission PathwaysPowdery mildew spores are transmitted through the air and most likely to break out when humidity is >65% and temperature is between 18-25°C. Initially, it appears as scattered white spots on the leaf surface, and in severe cases, it forms a fluffy mold layer, reducing the photosynthetic efficiency of the leaves by more than 40%.1.2 Comprehensive Control Measures Diseased leaves should be pruned immediately and disposed of in sealed bags, avoiding direct disposal around the pot. It is recommended to alternate between using 25% azoxystrobin suspension and 70% mancozeb wettable powder, spraying once every 7 days for 3 weeks. Focus on spraying the back of the leaves, where the survival rate of the pathogens is 32% higher than on the leaf surface.II. Pest Control: Ecological Control Technology for Scale Insects2.1 Identification Techniques for Pest InfestationAdult scale insects are 1-3mm long and often gather in the sunken areas of the leaf veins. The honeydew secreted by the insects can cause sooty mold, doubling the rate of chlorosis in the leaves.2.2 Physical and Chemical Combined ControlFirst, use a 75% alcohol cotton swab to kill visible adult insects, then spray the entire plant with a 10% imidacloprid solution (2000 times dilution). The key period is during the nymph hatching period (March-April), when the waxy layer of the insect has not fully formed, and the absorption rate of the pesticide can reach 92%.III. Water Management: Golden Rules for Root Care3.1 Root Rot Warning SignalsWhen the soil remains moist for more than 5 days, the fine roots start to turn brown. To check, gently lift the plant, and if the soil comes off in clumps, it indicates more than 30% root rot.3.2 Scientific Repotting OperationsAfter pruning the roots, soak them in a root growth promoter containing indolebutyric acid for 30 minutes. The new soil should be mixed in the ratio of coconut bran: perlite: vermiculite = 5:3:2, ensuring a porosity of >40%. Avoid watering within 72 hours after planting, and resume watering after the healing tissue has formed at the cut.IV. Light Regulation: Light Intensity Adaptation Strategy4.1 Light Demand ParametersThe suitable light intensity for the Money Tree is 8000-12000 lux. Continuous strong light (>20000 lux) for 3 hours may cause photo-oxidative damage. It is recommended to use a 40% shade net or place it 1.5 meters away from an east-facing window.4.2 Light Compensation SolutionFor leaves that have already suffered sunburn, spray with a 0.1% ferrous sulfate solution, combined with LED plant grow lights (red:blue ratio 4:1) for 4 hours daily, which can increase chlorophyll content by 17%.By systematically implementing the above control measures, along with regular leaf wiping (once a week) and environmental humidity control (50-60%), the Money Tree can fully recover within 2-3 growth cycles. It is recommended to conduct a plant health assessment monthly, establishing a maintenance log to record key parameters such as temperature, humidity, and fertilizer application, achieving scientific and refined management.