Leaf Problems & Lighting

by ARIANNA DORF

LEAF PROBLEMS

The leaves of a plant are a great visual indicator of the plant’s health. If you know why they’re looking less than healthy, you’re a long way towards solving the problem. Here are some common leaf problems, and what they are usually caused by.

  • Distorted, spotted or curling leaves – insect infestation or disease
  • Yellow leaves – overwatering or lack of light
  • Brown tipped leaves – watering inconsistently or lack of humidity
  • Pale leaves – too much light
  • Falling leaves – lack of light

Bright light: Cacti, Succulents, English Ivy, Philodendron, Spider plant, Rubber plant, Pothos (Devil’s Ivy), Schleffera (Umbrella Tree), Weeping Fig, Yucca, Bromeliad.

Low light: Sansevieria (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue), Peace Lily, English Ivy, Dieffenbachia, Philodendron, Pothos (Devil’s Ivy), Calathea (Prayer Plant), Aloe, Dracaena (Dragon Tree), Maidenhead Fern, Arum Fern (ZZ Plant).

Humidity: Orchid, Peperomia, Spider Plant, Monstera, Aloe Vera, Philodendron, Pothos (Devil’s Ivy), Ferns, Bamboo, Bromeliad, Chinese Evergreen, Croton.

 

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