Why Are My Red Aglaonema Leaves Turning Yellow? An In-Depth Guide

As an aglaonema parent, noticing those once vibrant red leaves fading to yellow can be concerning. But before you panic, know that yellow leaves are common and solving the issue is usually pretty straightforward. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover all the reasons your red aglaonema leaves may be turning yellow and how to get your plant back to its beautiful self

Common Causes of Yellow Leaves

Here are the most common culprits behind yellow aglaonema leaves

Overwatering

Excess moisture is the number one reason aglaonema leaves turn yellow. These tropical plants prefer their soil to dry out moderately between waterings. If the soil stays wet for too long, the roots are constantly soaked and can’t get oxygen. This leads to root rot and a variety of other problems.

Signs your plant is overwatered include:

• Yellow, droopy, translucent leaves
• Mushy, black roots
• Mold or fungus on the soil

Underwatering

While aglaonemas don’t like wet feet, letting them dry out too much stresses them out. If you wait too long between waterings, the leaves will start to yellow and droop.

Check for these clues your plant is underwatered:

• Leaves are yellow and wrinkly but not translucent
• Soil is bone dry
• New growth is small and stunted

Improper Lighting

Aglaonemas need bright, indirect light to thrive. Too much harsh sun scorches the leaves, while too little light causes them to yellow and stretch toward the light source.

If the yellow leaves are only on one side of your plant or appear pale and limp, insufficient light could be the issue. Move it to a spot with filtered sunlight for a few hours a day.

Pests

Spider mites, mealybugs, scale and other tiny bugs can infest aglaonemas. They suck out nutrients and fluids, causing leaves to yellow and wilt. Check the undersides of leaves and stems for small insects or sticky residue. Treat infestations early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Old Leaves Naturally Yellowing

As lower leaves age, it’s natural for them to yellow and eventually drop off. This is nothing to worry about as long as it’s only affecting a couple old leaves at a time. Just pinch them off to keep your plant looking its best.

If many leaves are rapidly yellowing, it’s likely due to another issue like improper moisture or light. Don’t assume it’s normal aging unless the yellow leaves are only near the soil line.

Correcting the Issue

Once you’ve diagnosed the cause of your aglaonema’s yellowing leaves, take these steps to restore its health:

• For overwatering, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Remove damaged leaves and any rotted roots.

• If underwatered, give the plant a thorough, deep watering and move to a spot with higher humidity.

• Improve lighting conditions by moving the aglaonema or using a grow light to supplement natural sunlight.

• Treat pest infestations as soon as possible. Isolate the plant and use organic sprays for a few weeks until the bugs are gone.

• Eliminate any cultural stress. Keep the plant at consistent temperatures between 60-80°F and maintain 40-60% humidity.

• Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly in the growing season for an added boost.

With time and care, an aglaonema with yellowing leaves can make a full recovery. Consistent soil moisture, proper lighting, and pest control are key. Remember, this is a gradual process. Don’t expect overnight results, but you should see gradual improvement over a few weeks.

How to Prevent Future Yellowing

Once you get your aglaonema healthy again, maintaining proper care will prevent leaves from turning yellow. Here are some tips:

• Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Always dump excess water from the saucer so the plant isn’t sitting in it.

• Find a spot with bright, indirect light. East or west-facing windows are ideal. Rotate the plant every few days if needed.

• Mist leaves regularly or use a pebble tray for humidity. Aglaonemas prefer 40-60%.

• Apply houseplant fertilizer every 4-6 weeks from spring through fall.

• Inspect leaves frequently for pests. Quarantine new plants and treat issues before they spread.

• Remove spent leaves and stems to encourage new growth.

• Repot when roots fill the container or every 2-3 years in fresh potting mix.

When to Seek Help

If you’ve tried everything and your aglaonema leaves keep turning yellow, it may have an underlying disease or pest issue. Reach out to your local extension office or plant nursery for personalized help diagnosing and treating the problem. They can assess if the plant is salvageable or if you may need to replace it and start over.

Don’t Lose Hope!

It’s discouraging when a beloved houseplant takes a turn for the worse. But in most cases, yellow leaves signal temporary stress that you can correct. With a little detective work and some TLC, your red aglaonema will be back to its vibrant self in no time. Be patient, stick to a consistent care routine, and those stunning red leaves will return.