The elephant ear plant is named for its big, unique leaves that look like the ears of the world’s biggest land animal. However, it can be picky about how much sunlight it gets and how much water it gets. Neglect or over-attention are the primary culprits behind their vibrant green leaves turning a disconcerting yellow. If you want this plant to grow like Goldilocks, it needs just the right amount of water and sun. Temperature, age, and soil issues can also have a negative impact.
Elephant ear plants come in many shapes, sizes, and colors, and do well both inside and outside. This makes them the perfect plant pet for gardeners. Plant them in the spring or early summer, and they usually grow quickly. It takes them about two months to reach their full size. Although they sound strong and majestic, they are quite fussy. So, how do you care for your elephant ears properly and prevent their leaves from yellowing?.
If you’ve noticed the leaves on your elephant ear plant turning yellow, don’t panic! Yellowing leaves are common and usually easy to remedy In this article, we’ll go over the top reasons an elephant ear plant gets yellow leaves and what you can do about it.
What Causes Yellow Leaves on Elephant Ear Plants?
There are a few key things that cause elephant ear leaves to turn yellow Let’s go through them one-by-one
Under or Overwatering
Too much or too little water is the most common cause of yellowing leaves on elephant ear plants. These tropical plants need a thorough soaking when the top inch of soil dries out. But take care not to overdo it, as soggy soil leads to root rot.
Check the soil moisture before watering. And make sure your plant has drainage holes so excess moisture can escape.
Low Humidity
Elephant ears thrive in humid conditions, similar to their native tropical habitat. When indoor humidity drops below 40%, you may see yellowing leaves as a result.
Misting the leaves daily helps boost moisture. You can also set the pot on a pebble tray filled with water to increase local humidity.
Sun Exposure
Too much direct sun will scorch elephant ear leaves, causing yellow spots or streaks. For the best color, provide bright, indirect light. Morning or evening sun is better than midday rays.
If yellowing is isolated to one side of the leaves, it’s likely a sunlight issue. Rotate the plant frequently for even sun exposure.
Cold Drafts
Elephant ears are very sensitive to temperature changes. Exposure to cold drafts from A/C vents or open doors/windows can make the leaves turn yellow.
Keep your elephant ear in a warm room, ideally between 70-85°F. And avoid placing it near cold air sources.
Nutrient Deficiency
Lack of nutrients due to improper soil conditions is a common reason for yellowing. Elephant ears need rich, fertile soil with abundant organic material.
One sign of nutrient deficiency is when the leaf veins remain green while the tissue between them turns yellow. Target fertilizing to the specific nutrients lacking.
Root Damage
Root issues like rot, restriction, or damage can prevent proper nutrient uptake. Without access to soil nutrients, the leaves yellow and drop.
Repotting into loose, well-draining soil provides healthy roots. Avoid overwatering and letting the roots sit in moisture.
Natural Causes
As part of the natural growth cycle, lower leaves will yellow and drop over time. This allows the plant to focus energy on new growth.
Pinch off the aging yellow leaves to keep your elephant ear looking its best. As long as new leaves grow in, old leaf drop is normal.
What to Do About Yellow Leaves on Elephant Ear
Now that we’ve covered the reasons behind yellowing leaves, let’s discuss solutions. Here are some tips for nursing your plant back to health:
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Adjust watering frequency based on soil dryness. Water thoroughly only when top inch is dry.
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Provide bright, indirect light to prevent leaf scorch. Rotate plant for even sun exposure.
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Mist leaves and use a pebble tray to increase humidity around plant.
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Keep away from cold drafts and maintain warm temps of 70-85°F.
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Repot in rich soil with compost or indoor plant fertilizer to prevent nutrient deficiency.
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Check roots for rot and repot if damaged. Use loose, well-draining soil.
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Remove spent older leaves to allow new growth. This is natural leaf drop.
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Be patient! It takes time for proper care to show results. Monitor and adjust as needed.
With a little TLC and attention to its care needs, your elephant ear plant should perk back up. Keep an eye out for new growth, as that’s a good sign your interventions are working. With time, you can get those leaves vibrant and green again.
When to Worry About Yellow Leaves
In most cases, yellowing elephant ear leaves are reversible with a little extra care. But in some situations, it may indicate a more serious underlying issue.
Here are a few signs yellowing leaves may be cause for concern:
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Yellowing is rapidly spreading to many leaves at once.
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Leaves are wilting or drooping in addition to yellowing.
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Spots, lesions, or unusual patterns appear on leaves.
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New growth is stunted or abnormal looking.
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You’ve addressed care issues but the yellowing persists.
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Multiple plants in the same area show similar symptoms.
If you notice any of these warning signs, the problem may be beyond improper care. At this point, it’s a good idea to inspect closely for pests like spider mites. Fungal or bacterial diseases could also be responsible.
Seeking advice from local greenhouse growers can help identify and treat more serious elephant ear afflictions. Catching issues early gives you the best chance of saving your plant.
Enjoy Those Gorgeous Green Leaves
While yellowing leaves on your elephant ear can be alarming, in most cases it’s easily corrected. Pay close attention to care needs like water, light, humidity, and warmth. Address any root or nutrient issues promptly as well.
With a little time and TLC, you can get your elephant ear back to tip-top shape. Just be patient and keep adjusting care as needed until new growth emerges. Soon you’ll have a thriving, vibrant elephant ear to enjoy indoors or out in the garden!
Giving your elephant ear some proper care
To maintain the vibrant green foliage of your elephant ear plant, start by considering the lighting conditions. Because these plants do best in bright, indirect light that mimics their natural environment, don’t put them in direct sunlight for long periods of time. As the leaves fall off, if your elephant ear is getting too much harsh, golden sunlight, get it some shade. Conversely, insufficient light will stunt growth and promote yellowing of the leaves, so filtered sunlight is best.
Elephant ear plants like soil that stays moist, but they will die if it gets too wet, even for a short time. Before you water, let the top inch of soil dry out. Also, use soil that drains well and pots with holes in the bottom for drainage. Overwatering can cause root rot and yellowing leaves. This plant can be moody, but it does best in damp places, so misting it or using a personal mini humidifier will help it grow.
Why an Elephant Ear (Colocasia) leaf turns yellow and dies.
FAQ
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