Why Do Campsis Leaves Turn Yellow
As a climbing plant that stands out for its beauty, Campsis often leaves flower enthusiasts troubled by yellowing leaves. Its pinnate leaves should be lush and green, but improper care can easily lead to dull leaf color and dry leaf tips, not only affecting the ornamental value but also serving as a distress signal from the plant. With scientific diagnosis and precise intervention, most yellowing leaf conditions can be effectively improved.
Analysis of the Three Main Causes of Yellowing Campsis Leaves
Root Suffocation: The Dangers of Overwatering
Although Campsis enjoys moisture, it dislikes waterlogging. When the substrate has poor drainage or is watered frequently, the fine roots will rot due to lack of oxygen. Initially, the lower old leaves turn yellow, and in severe cases, new leaves show water-soaked yellow spots. It is recommended to use the "Fingertip Test": Insert the index finger into the soil up to two knuckles, and if the fingertips are moist, there is no need to water.
Photosynthesis Disorder: The Impact of Insufficient Light
A minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight is required daily, and long-term shading can lead to hindered chlorophyll synthesis. Insufficient light can cause the plant to have elongated branches, increased leaf spacing, and thin, yellowed leaves. For north-facing balcony care, it is recommended to pair with a grow light, supplementing with 2 hours of 4500K color temperature lighting daily.
Nutritional Imbalance: The Consequences of Improper Fertilization
During the growing season (April-September), it is necessary to top-dress every 15 days. Nitrogen deficiency causes uniform yellowing of old leaves, while iron deficiency causes yellowing between the veins of new leaves. It is recommended to alternate between decomposed sheep manure (NPK 3-1-2) and chelated iron fertilizer, and after fertilizing, perform the "water back operation" to rinse the leaf surface to avoid fertilizer burn.
Four-Step Rescue Method for Yellowing Plants
Root Revival Treatment Plan
Remove the plant from the pot and inspect the roots, pruning the blackened and rotting parts. Soak in a solution of 800 times the concentration of carbendazim for 30 minutes, then repot using a breathable substrate of珍珠岩:蛭石=3:1. During the slow recovery period, use the pot immersion method to water and maintain 60% air humidity.
Light Adjustment Implementation Points
In spring and autumn, full sunlight care is possible, while in summer, use a shading net to filter out 30% of the intense light. Pay attention to pot rotation, turning the pot 90 degrees every 3 days to ensure even exposure to light. In winter, ensure at least 3 hours of direct sunlight daily, and regularly clean the glass inside for better light transmission.
Scientific Fertilization Schedule
In March, apply high-nitrogen fertilizer during the germination stage, switch to phosphorus-potassium fertilizer in May during the budding stage, and add balanced fertilizer after flowering. Follow the principle of "light and frequent fertilization," diluting the recommended concentration by 50% and applying it weekly. During the winter fertilization break, spray seaweed acid on the leaf surface to maintain vitality.
By establishing a "dry-wet" watering mechanism, ensuring an average of 4 hours of daily sunlight, implementing a stage-based fertilization strategy, and regularly checking the back of leaves to prevent spider mite infestations, the yellowing leaf problem of Campsis can be systematically resolved. It is recommended to record the plant's condition in a gardening diary every month, establishing a personalized care file to ensure the long-lasting brilliance of the plant.