Do you wonder why my umbrella plant is turning black, brown, or yellow? The umbrella plant changes color due to many reasons. It could be due to environmental factors, lack of nutrients, negligence, or poor soil. But to treat your plant, it is critical to figure out the root cause of the problem. Today I am going to share my experience with umbrella plants.
Contents
Umbrella Plant Turning Yellow, Black, Or Brown
Why Does an Umbrella Plant Turn Brown?
Many factors can make this situation happen. The major reason that makes the umbrella plants leaves droopy and brown is the under-watering. Since it is a large plant and can grow as big as 10 meters, it requires a considerable amount of water in solid and humidity in the air. Prolonged drought or under watering can turn the foliage brown and crispy.
Another possible reason could be the presence of spores. Spores that grow on the leaves of houseplants can cause them to turn brown. Also, when you bring a new plant to your home, its foliage turns brown, and leaves start falling off. It happens due to the difference in conditions, and it is normal for a new plant to behave this way in a new environment.
Solution
- Water the umbrella plants once a week under normal conditions. In extreme summer, water the plants when the upper layer of the soil completely dries up.
- For new indoor plants, use a humidifier to provide them with favorable conditions and combat the new environment.
- If the solid is dried out completely and the foliage is turned brown, you can reverse the satiation by soaking the potted plant in a tub. Soak the potted plant in a tub with 3-4 inch water for 24 hours.
Why Does an Umbrella Plant Turn Yellow?
The most common factor causing the umbrella plants to turn yellow is the high or sometimes low moisture level. Overwatering and poor drainage in the soil result in a high moisture level, causing roots to rot and making the plants weak.
Indoor umbrella plants do not get enough light which can also make them turn yellow. Sunburn can also cause indoor umbrella plants to turn yellow. The plants placed close to the glass windows are more susceptible to sunburn since glass intensifies the heat.
Solution
- Follow a strict watering schedule and do not overwater plants. It is ideal for watering the umbrella plants once a week in summers and every 14 days in winters. You should also regularly check the moisture level and drainage of the soil.
- To improve drainage, open the clogged holes in pots and screw extra holes for ground planted plants and well-rotted compost or dry leaves to improve the soil drainage.
- Place the plant at a spot where they get enough sunlight.
- Do not place plants close to the glass window or apply a protective sheet on the glass to avoid sunburn.
Why Does an Umbrella Plant Turn Black?
The Umbrella plant turns black or purple mainly due to the frost and cold damage. Umbrella plants cannot tolerate temperatures less than 7 degrees celsius. Additionally, overwatering or excessive moisture in the soil makes it easier for the fungal species to invade the plants. Disease caused by mildew or fungus can also cause umbrella plants to turn black.
Solution
- To save your plant from cold damage, do not prune the plant in early winters. The plant's old and leggy leaves and branches will protect the plants from extreme cold and frost.
- Trim the old brown leaves in late winters when the temperature is above 10 degrees celsius.
- Improve your way of watering. Always water the plant from the bottom and make sure water is not stacked on the leaves.
- Improve the drainage of the soil to balance the moisture level in the soul.
- Only water the plants when the upper 4-inch layer of soil is dried up.
- Immediately prune the leaves and branches attacked by fungal species.
- If the fungal disease is spreading quickly, use a fungicide to prevent the spread.
FAQs
Why is my umbrella tree turning black?
How do I know if my umbrella plant has root rot?
Wrapping Up
The Umbrella plant requires a little maintenance and care and grows beautifully. If you want to protect your plants, do not overlook them, follow their watering and feeding schedule, and consider their needs with changing seasons.