Why Do the Leaves of Epipremnum Aureum Turn Black?
Epipremnum aureum, as a common ornamental plant, often causes concern among growers when its leaves suddenly develop black spots or burn edges. This phenomenon not only affects its ornamental value but may also indicate a survival crisis for the plant. By scientifically analyzing the details of maintenance, we can quickly identify the root cause and take precise treatment measures.
Four Main Causes of Black Leaves in Epipremnum Aureum
Imbalance in Light Intensity
When the UV intensity reaches 15000-20000μW/cm² at noon in summer, the cells of Epipremnum aureum leaves can be damaged within 2 hours. It is recommended to use a shading net to filter 30%-50% of the light or move the plant to a location 1.5 meters away from an east-facing window sill for care.
Root Respiration Impaired
When the soil moisture content continuously exceeds 70%, the roots start to rot after 3 days of oxygen deprivation. The bamboo stake test can be used: insert a bamboo stake into the soil for 2 hours, and if the moist part exceeds 2/3 of the stake's length, it is necessary to control the water.
Excessive Fertilizer Concentration
A water-soluble fertilizer EC value exceeding 1.5mS/cm can cause the cytoplasmic separation of root tip cells. It is recommended to use a diluted nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium compound fertilizer at 1:2000 during the growing season, and stop fertilizing in winter.
Post后遗症 of Low Temperature Frostbite
When the ambient temperature is below 10°C for 48 hours, the cell membrane structure of the leaves is damaged, and after thawing, the cell sap seeps out forming black spots. It is necessary to maintain an environment above 15°C in winter, combined with the pot-in-pot method for insulation.
Four-Step Treatment Plan for Black Leaves in Epipremnum Aureum
Root Repair Surgery
After removing the pot, retain 1/3 of the protective soil, cut the black roots with a sterilized scissor until white tissue is exposed, soak in a carbendazim solution for 20 minutes, and then replace with a new matrix of perlite: peat at a ratio of 3:1.
Resetting the Light System
Move the plant to a diffused light environment with an illuminance of 2000-3000lux, use a grow light for 6 hours daily, and continue for 10 days to promote the germination of new leaves.
Precise Water and Fertilizer Control
Adopt the "dry-wet" 2.0 mode: water thoroughly when the top layer of soil is dry for 1cm, and use a soil moisture meter to maintain 30%-50% moisture content. Supplement with chelated iron foliar fertilizer once a month to prevent yellow leaves.
Temperature Gradient Management
In winter, use the "sandwich insulation method": place a 2cm foam board at the bottom of the pot, wrap the pot wall with insulation cotton, and set up a transparent plastic cover on top to maintain a small environment temperature of 15-18°C.
Through systematic inspection of environmental parameters and precise intervention, 90% of Epipremnum aureum with black leaves can recover within 30 days. For daily maintenance, it is recommended to equip with a thermometer, hygrometer, illuminance meter, and establish a maintenance log to record water, fertilizer, and light data, achieving scientific green plant management.