Are you wondering why your beloved jade plant is turning yellow? It could be a sign of distress or something more serious. In this blog, we’ll look at why jade plants turn yellow, what you can do to fix the issue, and how you can prevent it in the future.
Why is Jade Plant Turning Yellow?
The jade plant turning yellow is most likely caused by too much direct sunlight, over-watering, or a nutrient deficiency. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn yellow and dry out, while over-watering can cause root rot, which will also cause the leaves to turn yellow. If the plant does not receive enough nutrients, it can also cause the leaves to turn yellow.
Overwatering
When jade plants are overwatered, the soil becomes waterlogged, preventing oxygen from reaching the roots. Without oxygen, the roots can’t take in the nutrients they need to flourish, and the leaves will turn yellow. The yellowing of the leaves indicates that something is wrong and that the plant needs help.
Another sign of overwatering is when the leaves start to drop off. This is because the plant cannot absorb the excess water and is trying to get rid of it as quickly as possible.
Underwatering
Another main cause of jade plants turning yellow from underwatering is not getting enough water. You must water jade plants regularly and deeply to keep them healthy and grow. When the soil around the plant is allowed to dry out too much, the plant can suffer from dehydration, and the leaves will turn yellow. This is an indicator that the plant isn’t receiving enough water.
Jade plants turn yellow if the soil is too compacted. When the soil is too tightly packed, it can prevent water from reaching the plant’s roots, resulting in yellowing leaves. Make sure the soil around the plant is loose and aerated.
Jade plants planted in containers can suffer from under watering if the potting mix needs to be changed more frequently. As the jade plant grows, it needs more soil to reach its full potential. If the soil isn’t changed regularly, it can become too compacted, preventing the jade plant from getting the water it needs.
Too Much Or Insufficient Light
The jade plant is a native succulent to South Africa. Most jade plants require bright, indirect light, and it’s important to provide enough light to keep them healthy and happy.
When a jade plant is exposed to too much light, its leaves can become yellow and may start to curl or burn. This is a sign that the plant is being subjected to excessive sunlight, and the amount of sunlight should be reduced.
On the other hand, if a jade plant is not getting enough light, its leaves will start to turn yellow from lack of chlorophyll. In this case, the plant must be moved to a brighter spot.
Wrong Temperature
Temperature is an important factor for jade plants, as too hot or too cold can cause them to turn yellow. If the temperature is too low, the leaves and stems of the jade plant may start to yellow and eventually fall off. This can be caused by temperatures below 60°F or during cold winters when the temperature drops significantly.
On the other hand, temperatures that are too hot and dry can also cause jade plants to turn yellow. If the temperature is consistently over 80°F, the leaves on the jade plant may start to yellow and eventually die. The plant cannot get enough water and nutrients to survive high temperatures.
The best way to avoid this issue is to ensure the temperature around your jade plant stays around 65-75°F. This way, the jade plant will stay healthy and vibrant, and you won’t have to worry about it turning yellow.
Poor soil
Poor soil is one of the most common causes of jade plants turning yellow. When you first plant your jade plant, choosing the right type of soil is important. It should be well-draining and have an acidic to neutral pH. If the soil is too alkaline, it can lead to jade plant yellowing.
Jade plants need soil rich in nutrients and plenty of organic matter. Without the right soil, the jade plant will not receive the nutrients and minerals needed to stay healthy.
The cause of yellowing in jade plants is an iron deficiency. Iron is essential for the growth and development of plants, and it is easily depleted in soil with poor fertility. Iron deficiency can be caused by a number of factors, including an inadequate supply of nutrients, an overabundance of certain elements, or a pH level that is too high or too low.
Pests
Pests like aphids, mealybugs, and scale can all cause jade plants to turn yellow. These pests feed on the sap of the jade plant, which causes the leaves to turn yellow as the plant isn’t able to get the nutrients it needs. The yellow leaves can also be a sign of an infestation, as the pests can be difficult to spot.
They can also create a sticky substance called honeydew, which can encourage the growth of sooty mold on the plant. This mold can further weaken the plant by reducing the amount of light it can receive and blocking its access to food and water.
Over fertilizer
When it comes to fertilizing jade plants, less is more. These plants don’t need a lot of fertilizer to stay healthy, and too much can do more harm than good. Over-fertilizing jade plants can cause the leaves to become yellow, as the excess nutrients can overwhelm the plant and cause a nutrient burn.
Incorrectly mixed fertilizer can also cause yellow foliage. If you are using a pre-mixed fertilizer, check the label to ensure the ratios are correct. If you are mixing your fertilizer, make sure to use one that is appropriate for jade plants and follow the directions closely.
How To Fix Jade Plant Yellow Leaves
Improve Drainage
Potting soil with a high clay content may be too dense to allow water to pass through it easily. Add a few handfuls of perlite or compost to the mix to lighten the soil and help it to drain more quickly.
Once the soil has been lightened and draining more quickly, you should check the pot’s drainage holes. If the holes are not large enough, the water will run off the sides of the pot instead of being able to enter the soil. Ensure the drainage holes are at least 1/4” in diameter so the water can move freely.
You should also check the pot to ensure it has a tray or saucer underneath it. This will help to catch any excess water that may run off the pot, preventing it from pooling around the plant’s roots and causing root rot. If your pot has no tray, you can easily make one from scrap wood.
Adjust Lighting
Jade plants prefer bright, indirect light. The leaves can burn and turn yellow if exposed to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day. To fix this, move your jade plant to a spot in your home where it won’t be exposed to direct sunlight.
The easiest way to adjust the lighting for a jade plant is to move it closer or farther away from a window. The optimal distance is a few feet away from the window, and it should receive bright, indirect light all day. If the plant is in a windowless room, supplement the natural light with artificial light, such as a fluorescent or LED bulb.
Control Pests and Diseases
To control pests and diseases, you need to identify the cause. Some of the most common causes of discolored jade leaves are spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and root rot. If your jade plant’s leaves are yellowing or wilting, inspect them closely for any of these pests. Be sure to check underneath the leaves and the stems, as some pests like to hide in the nooks and crannies of the plant.
Once you’ve identified the pest or disease, the next step is to treat it. For spider mites, you can use a strong stream of water to knock them off the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to kill them.
You can remove mealybugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. To kill scale insects, you can use a cotton swab dipped in horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
It is important to take the necessary steps to prevent Pests. Keeping your jade plant in an area with adequate light but only a little direct sunlight is key. Water your jade plant deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Finally, it’s a good idea to occasionally wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt that could harbor pests or diseases.
Pruning
Use a pair of sharp, clean scissors to remove any dead or dying leaves. This will help clear away debris and help the jade plant focus on healthy growth. Once you’ve removed the dead leaves, you should trim away any branches or stems that are growing unbalanced. This will help to promote a more even and attractive shape.
Repotting
When jade plants start to grow, their roots can become rootbound. This means that the roots have filled the entire pot and can no longer absorb the nutrients and water they need. When this happens, the plant may experience stress, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and even drop off. Repotting jade plants can fix this problem by giving the roots more room to grow and access the necessary nutrients and water.
You’ll first need to choose a container slightly larger than its current one to repot your jade plant. You’ll also need some well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix and some fertilizer (depending on your fertilizer type).
When you’re ready to repot, gently remove your jade plant from its container and place it in the new one. Tamp down the soil around the plant, careful not to damage its roots. Water the soil and apply the fertilizer (if you use any). Place your jade plant in a spot that receives adequate sunlight and water it as necessary.
Prevention for Jade Plant Yellow Leaves
Choose the Right Location: To thrive, a jade plant needs bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn and turn yellow. If your jade is in a window facing south or west, try to move it to a less sunny spot.
Water Properly: Overwatering can lead to yellow leaves, as can underwatering. Let the soil dry out between watering to strike a balance, then give your jade a good drink. If you’re having trouble with how much to water, use your finger to check the soil’s moisture level.
Prune Regularly: Pruning your jade plant helps keep it healthy and compact. It also helps air to circulate, which discourages fungal and bacterial growth. To prune, use clean, sharp scissors to cut off any stems or leaves that are dead or dying.
Feed Your Plant: Fertilizing your jade plant encourages healthy growth and can help prevent yellow leaves. Use a balanced fertilizer or one specifically formulated for succulents twice a year during the spring and summer.
Wrap Up
It is important to understand the causes of jade plants turning yellow to take the proper steps to prevent it. Common causes of yellowing include too much or too little water, insufficient light, or a nutrient deficiency. A jade plant can remain healthy and vibrant for many years through proper care and attention.
