If you’re noticing that your aloe vera plant is turning yellow, there are several possible reasons for this change in color. It’s important to identify the cause so you can address the issue and help your plant regain its healthy green color.
1. Overwatering: One common cause of yellowing aloe plants is overwatering. Aloe vera plants are succulents, and they store water in their leaves. However, they don’t like to sit in constantly wet soil. If you’re giving your aloe too much water, the roots may become waterlogged, leading to yellowing leaves. To fix this, allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Stick your finger into the soil about an inch deep – if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
2. Underwatering: On the flip side, underwatering can also cause aloe vera plants to turn yellow. If the soil becomes too dry, the plant may not be able to absorb enough water to sustain itself, resulting in yellow and wilted leaves. To remedy this, make sure you’re watering your aloe vera plant thoroughly whenever the soil is dry. When you water, do so until the excess water drains out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.
3. Sunlight exposure: Aloe vera plants generally thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. However, if your plant is exposed to too much direct sunlight, it can lead to yellowing or browning of the leaves. This is because excessive sunlight can damage the plant’s chlorophyll and cause sunburn. If your aloe vera is getting too much sun, consider moving it to a location with filtered or indirect sunlight. Alternatively, you can use a sheer curtain or shade cloth to diffuse the sunlight.
4. Over-fertilization: Aloe vera plants are not heavy feeders, and excessive fertilization can lead to yellowing leaves. If you’ve been using a high-nitrogen fertilizer or fertilizing too frequently, it’s possible that your plant is experiencing nutrient burn. To address this, stop fertilizing your aloe vera for a while and flush the soil with water to help remove any excess salts or chemicals. Once the plant starts to recover, you can resume a light fertilization routine using a balanced, diluted fertilizer.
5. Natural aging: It’s important to note that aloe vera plants naturally age and produce new leaves at the center while the older leaves at the bottom die off. As the older leaves age, they may turn yellow and eventually dry up. This is a normal part of an aloe vera plant’s growth cycle, and as long as new leaves continue to emerge, there is no cause for concern.
If your aloe vera plant is turning yellow, it’s likely due to overwatering, underwatering, excessive sunlight, over-fertilization, or natural aging. Assess the conditions in which your plant is growing and make the appropriate adjustments to ensure its health and vitality. Remember, each plant is unique, so it may take some trial and error to find the right balance of water, light, and nutrients for your aloe vera.
