Does your hibiscus have yellow leaves? Can this be normal and not a cause for concern? In some cases, yes. Often the yellowing of hibiscus leaves corrects itself. However, in other cases, pruning of the entire plant is necessary.
Hibiscus leaves turn yellow to signal a specific need. What causes yellow leaves? Many factors contribute to yellowing. Familiarizing yourself with these factors will help you address the cause before it becomes a problem.
Nutrient deficiencies can cause yellowing of leaves
Nutrient deficiency causes yellow hibiscus leaves. IfYour plant is suffering from nutrient deficiencysuffers, some of the leaves turn yellow, but remain on the plant. This is easily remedied by adding fertilizer or enriching the soil.
Yellow leaves due to inadequate water conditions
If too much or too little water is given, hibiscus will have yellow leaves. Although these plants need a lot of water, especially in high heat or wind, overwatering can be harmful. Ideally, you should only water enough to keep the soil moist but not wet. During the rest phaseshould the irrigationbe reduced. Moisten the soil only enough to prevent it from drying out completely.
Inadequate drainage can affect hibiscus, often resulting in yellow leaves. Make sure that the vessels have suitable drainage. If the plants do not receive enough water, the leaves may also yellow. Test the soil with your finger to make sure the plant is getting enough water. Soak the hibiscus generously. A generous weekly watering is preferable to frequent watering because the water penetrates deep enough into the soil to reach the roots.
Additionally, the roots are stimulated to grow and establish, further increasing the plant's tolerance to drought. Add a layer of mulch to the surface of the soil for your hibiscus to retain moisture, add nutrients and improve soil structure.
Applying a 3cm layer of compost, leaf mold or well-rotted manure to the soil around the hibiscus improves the soil's ability to retain moisture and reduces the risk of drought. Apply the mulch once in spring and again in mid-summer if your soil dries out too quickly. Self-watering pots are also a good way to regulate water conditions for the plant.
If your hibiscus has yellow leaves: pay attention to temperature conditions
When it is extremely hot, especially in summer, the hibiscus needs additional watering. Otherwise, the plant will dry out quickly and succumb to heat stress. This can cause your hibiscus to have yellow leaves. The plant also reacts to temperatures that are too low by turning its leaves yellow. Make sure the hibiscus is protected from drafts and excessive wind. Strong winds reduce humidity, which is preferredHibiscus growing conditionscontradicts this because it is native to the tropics.
Consider planting other shrubs to act as wind buffers, or placing your potted hibiscus in a location that is still sunny but perhaps protected by a garden fence. Bring the plant indoors when outside temperatures reach freezing. Mist the leaves with a spray bottle to increase humidity and prevent further water loss. With regular watering, wind protection and mulch, the plant should recover from drought.
Light conditions are crucial for the development of the plant
Light is another factor associated with hibiscus and yellow leaves. Again, too much sunlight can cause leaves to turn yellow and white spots to form, indicating plant burn. Remove the damaged leaves and change the location of the plant.If the hibiscusIf you don't get enough light, the plant can also react with yellow leaves, which then fall off to compensate for the lack of light. This can be easily remedied by moving the plant to a location with more sunlight.
What happens when the plant goes into dormancy
The hibiscus turns yellow leaves when it is ready to go dormant. Allow the plant to die back by reducing watering. After the plant enters dormancy, bring it indoors and place it in a cool, dark place for a few months, then cut it back and place it in a sunny window. Water regularly again. When the hibiscus shows new growth, give it a boost of fertilizer. Once spring returns, the plant can be moved outdoors.
Change in environment can lead to stress
If your hibiscus has yellow leaves, stops blooming, or looks wilted after being moved, the plant may be suffering from stress. This is a normal process and can be expected when the plant is moved to a different environment.
Pests are a common factor
Yellow hibiscus leaves can be the result of pests such as spider mites. If left untreated, the stressed plant will eventually lose all of its foliage. If you suspect these pests, spray the plantwith soapy wateror a suitable pesticide.
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