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Posted 1Y ago by @CozyDyebush98

Why are the leaves turning colors and falling off?

#MoneyTree
Last watered 1 year ago
Hi Stephanie, welcome to Greg!

Yellowing leaves are a common sign of a watering issue. I see on your plant card that your pot does not have drainage, which can cause a plant to be too moist.

Are you able to check the soil and I see if it feels wet or dry?
@CozyDyebush98 welcome to the Greg community! I agree with @PlantMompy since the most common reasons for a Money Tree's leaves to turn yellow and fall off are improper watering (either overwatering or underwatering) and insufficient humidity. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause dehydration and stress. Insufficient humidity can also cause leaves to droop, brown, and eventually turn yellow and fall off. Here's a more detailed explanation:
1. Watering Issues:
Overwatering:
Money Trees are sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. This happens when the soil stays soggy for too long, preventing the roots from getting the oxygen they need. Signs of overwatering include mushy leaves, yellowing leaves, and drooping leaves.
Underwatering:
While Money Trees don't require frequent watering, they also don't like to be completely dry for extended periods. Underwatering can cause leaves to wilt, turn yellow, and eventually drop.
2. Humidity:
Low Humidity: Money Trees are tropical plants that thrive in humid environments. Low humidity can cause leaves to develop brown spots or edges, droop, and then turn yellow and fall off.
3. Other Potential Causes:
Light:
Money Trees need bright, indirect light, so too much or too little sunlight can also contribute to yellowing leaves.
Temperature:
Fluctuations in temperature can stress the plant and cause leaves to turn yellow.
Pests:
While less common, pests like spider mites can also cause yellowing leaves by sucking the sap from the plant.
Nutrient Deficiencies:
If the plant isn't getting enough nutrients, it can also lead to yellowing leaves.
Troubleshooting:
Check the soil moisture:
Stick your finger into the soil to see how moist it is. If it's wet, reduce watering. If it's dry, give the plant a good soaking.
Assess the light:
Make sure the plant is getting bright, indirect light, but not direct sunlight.
Consider humidity:
If you have a humidifier, use it to increase the humidity around the plant.
Inspect for pests:
Check the plant for signs of pests and treat them accordingly if necessary.
Fertilize:
If you haven't fertilized in a while, use a balanced fertilizer formulated for indoor plants. Hope this helps, Happy Growing!!
Hi! I certainly recommend the above - drainage is really important for a money tree. I also recommend having it near a humidifier if possible. I saw a noticable difference in mine when it was a higher humidity!