Why Are My Ivy Leaves Turning Yellow?
Ivy plants are popular for their ability to thrive in both indoor and outdoor spaces. They are known for their beautiful, flowing leaves and their hardiness. However, even the hardiest of ivy plants can develop yellow leaves from time to time.
Causes of Yellow Leaves on Ivy Plants
There are many different causes of yellow leaves on ivy plants, including:
- Environmental stressors, such as sudden changes in temperature, drafts, dry air, or high levels of fertilizer salts in the soil
- Pests, such as mites or whiteflies
- Diseases, such as bacterial spot
Environmental Stressors
Yellowing leaves on ivy plants are often caused by a shock to the plant’s system. This can happen when the plant is transplanted, exposed to drafts, or placed in an area with dry air.
Pests
Mites are tiny arachnids that can cause yellow dots to appear on ivy leaves. As the mites spread, the yellow dots grow together, resulting in widespread yellowing. Other signs of mites include puckered or distorted leaves, and fine, silk threads near damage.
Whiteflies are small, white insects that suck the juices out of ivy plants. They are often found on the undersides of leaves in groups, and they can cause the leaves to turn yellow.
Diseases
Bacterial spot is a disease that can cause brown to black lesions on ivy leaves, surrounded by yellow halos. It is most common in areas with high humidity.
How to Fix Yellow Leaves on Ivy Plants
The best way to fix yellow leaves on ivy plants is to identify and address the underlying cause.
Environmental Stressors
- Check that your plant is not standing in water.
- Move it away from windows that receive direct sunlight.
- Move it away from heating vents.
- Leach the salts from the planter by adding water equal to double the pot’s volume and allowing it to run out the bottom.
- Mist the plant regularly if the air is dry.
Pests
- Treat mites with insecticidal soap.
- Spray whiteflies with a strong stream of water from a garden hose or kitchen sprayer.
Diseases
- Prune out severely diseased areas.
- Treat the rest of the plant with a copper fungicide.
- Avoid overhead watering or heavy misting that results in standing water on leaves.
Preventing Yellow Leaves on Ivy Plants
The best way to prevent yellow leaves on ivy plants is to provide them with the proper care. This includes:
- Watering the plant regularly, but not overwatering.
- Fertilizing the plant monthly during the growing season.
- Protecting the plant from pests and diseases.
- Providing the plant with the right amount of sunlight.
By following these tips, you can help your ivy plant stay healthy and green.
Additional Tips
- If you are unsure of what is causing the yellow leaves on your ivy plant, you can take it to a local nursery or garden center for diagnosis.
- There are many different products available to help you treat yellow leaves on ivy plants. Be sure to read the labels carefully before using any products.
