Reasons and Solutions for Chlorosis in Spider Plants
As a common indoor ornamental leaf plant, spider plants are popular for their gracefully pendant leaves. However, when the leaves show extensive yellowing, it not only affects their ornamental value but may also indicate cultivation issues. This article systematically analyzes the three main causes of yellowing leaves and corresponding treatment solutions through illustrations.
Core Causes of Chlorosis in Spider Plants
Unbalanced Light Exposure Leading to Chlorosis
Spider plants are semi-shaded plants, requiring 3-4 hours of scattered light per day. When exposed to direct midday sunlight for over 2 hours, the structure of the chloroplasts is damaged, resulting in leaf tips turning yellow and spreading to the leaf surface. Varieties like variegated spider plants are more sensitive to intense sunlight.
Remedial steps: 1. Use a shading net to filter 50% of the light intensity. 2. Maintain an environmental humidity of over 60%. 3. Retain 1/3 of the healthy leaf area when pruning.
Improper Water Management Causing Chlorosis
Watering more than three times a week can cause root rot, initially manifested as yellowing of the lower leaves, followed by the entire plant wilting. When checking soil moisture, insert a finger into the soil 2cm deep; if dry, water can be supplemented.
Root repair process: 1. Retain 1/3 of the protective soil after removing the pot. 2. Soak the roots in carbendazim for 20 minutes. 3. Use a new substrate with 30% perlite.
Excessive Fertilizer Burning Leading to Chlorosis
Excessive nitrogen fertilizer can lead to interveinal chlorosis, while an excess of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers cause leaf margins to turn brown. The monthly dosage of solid compound fertilizer should not exceed 15 pellets, and liquid fertilizer should be diluted to half the concentration stated in the instructions.
Emergency plan: 1. Water thoroughly three times in a row to leach out the excess fertilizer. 2. Add decomposed pine needles to adjust the soil pH. 3. Use brassinolide to promote recovery.
By precisely controlling light intensity, establishing a scientific dry-wet cycle watering schedule, adopting a strategy of applying thin layers of fertilizer frequently, and rotating the pot regularly to balance light exposure, spider plants can sprout new leaves within 30 days. A special reminder: maintain an environment above 15°C in winter to prevent yellowing due to low temperatures.