Why are leaves on my anthurium turning yellow?

One possible reason for the leaves on your Anthurium turning yellow is inadequate sunlight. Anthuriums thrive in bright indirect light, and if they don’t receive enough light, their leaves may turn yellow. It’s important to place your Anthurium in a location where it can receive bright, filtered light for several hours a day.

Another possible cause of yellow leaves is overwatering. Anthuriums prefer slightly moist soil, but overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. It’s crucial to ensure that your Anthurium has proper drainage and that you allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry out before watering again. This will help prevent waterlogged soil and promote healthy root growth.

In addition to overwatering, underwatering can also cause yellow leaves. If the soil is consistently dry and your Anthurium is not receiving enough water, the leaves may turn yellow and become droopy. It’s important to find a balance and provide your Anthurium with adequate water, allowing the soil to slightly dry out between waterings.

Nutrient deficiencies can also contribute to yellowing leaves. Anthuriums require a balanced fertilizer to thrive, and if they lack essential nutrients such as nitrogen, iron, or magnesium, their leaves may turn yellow. Regularly fertilizing your Anthurium with a balanced houseplant fertilizer can help prevent nutrient deficiencies and keep the leaves vibrant and healthy.

Pests can also be a culprit for yellow leaves. Aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs are common pests that can infest Anthuriums and cause damage to the leaves. Inspect your plant regularly for any signs of pests, such as tiny insects, webbing, or sticky residue on the leaves. If you find any pests, treat them with an appropriate insecticide or by using natural pest control methods.

Lastly, temperature extremes can cause yellowing leaves in Anthuriums. These plants prefer temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). If the temperature drops below or exceeds this range, the leaves may turn yellow as a sign of stress. Ensure that your Anthurium is kept in a suitable environment with consistent temperatures to avoid leaf discoloration.

Yellow leaves on an Anthurium can be attributed to various factors such as inadequate sunlight, overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, pests, or temperature extremes. By addressing these potential issues and providing your Anthurium with the appropriate care, you can help prevent yellowing leaves and promote a healthy plant.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.