Wilted and yellow leaves - Knowledgebase Question

Ventura, CA
Avatar for geonna
Question by geonna
December 10, 2005
Why are my 3 hisbiscus plants leaves wilting, turning yellow and dropping off? The plants are about 2 months old. What kind of pest control do I need? Thank you.


Image
Answer from NGA
December 10, 2005
Yellow leaves can be caused by many things including lack of nitrogen, insufficient light, water-logged soil (plant roots need oxygen to thrive), dry soil, or iron deficiency. If the older bottom leaves are yellow, but new growth is green, it's usually a lack of nitrogen. If new leaves are yellow, with green veins, it's usually a lack of iron. (Lack of nitrogen is a more common problem than lack of iron.) Soil should be kept moderately moist (but not wet). Finally, a cold snap can injure the leaves; they will wilt suddenly and then drop off the plant.

Hibiscus is sometimes host to aphids (Insecticidal Soap is effective). Spray according to label directions if you find aphids feeding on the leaves of your plant.

You must be signed in before you can post questions or answers. Click here to join!

« Return to the Garden Knowledgebase Homepage

Member Login:

( No account? Join now! )

Today's site banner is by RootedInDirt and is called "Botanical Gardens"

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.