The dracaena is a simple yet elegant plant that effortlessly adds a touch of peace and tranquility to any setting. You won’t notice it’s there, but, when it’s not, you’ll feel its absence.
Unfortunately, however, dracaena leaves can begin facing discoloration issues soon after planting. They turn yellow or brown and the plant’s overall health takes a big hit.
This article will walk you through a few possible causes behind your leaf discoloration and how you can navigate around the issue.
Let’s get right into it, shall we?
Yellow & Brown Dracaena Leaves? How To Save Your Plant
1) Intuitional Watering
Intuitional watering or watering whenever you feel like it can be problematic when it comes to growing dracaenas.
If your watering frequency is high and you flood the plant every time you “water”, root rot is probably the reason behind your leaf discoloration issue.
Underwatering and watering too little with long gaps in between sessions is also not good. It dries out the plant and causes the leaves to curl and turn a lifeless shade of yellow or brown.
Solution: Get a grip on your watering routine and only provide enough for adequate hydration. Too little or too much water will always negatively impact your dracaena’s health, aesthetics, and integrity.
2) Poor Humidity
Like many indoor plants, dracaenas thrive in slightly humid environments where plenty of moisture is present in the air.
If humidity is low, it can have a detrimental effect on the plant’s overall growth and leaf development.
Discoloration and yellowing can become more prominent and leaves might begin to take on a dry and crisp look over time.
Solution: Using a humidifier around your dracaena plant will be effective for adding moisture to the air. However, if you don’t have access to a humidifier, frequently spraying your plant with water throughout the day is your next best option.
3) Lack Of Nutrients
It’s common for garden soil to not have the right nutrient profile for growing plants effectively.
Lacking potassium, nitrogen, or magnesium can inhibit plant growth and lead to discoloration and poor leaf development.
If your dracaena leaves are slowly but steadily turning yellow or brown, poor nutrient supply may be the reason.
Solution: Homemade compost can be made by throwing leftover organic material like eggshells, cardboard, old wood, and food scraps into a bin. As the matter decomposes, it can be mixed with garden soil for an effective nutrient boost.
4) Pest Takeover & Damage
Pests are another concern when it comes to growing plants.
Aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, or certain destructive beetles might have taken over your dracaena plant, causing it to weaken and suffer leaf discoloration.
A pest infestation can place great stress on a plant and, if necessary action is not taken rather quickly, your beloved plant could die.
Solution: Neem oil has been used as a natural pesticide for centuries. It repels pests and insects that might harm crops and has no negative side effects on plants if used in moderation.
Simply add one whole tablespoon of neem oil to a gallon of water and water your dracaena with it every once in a while.
Final Words
Although yellowing leaves might not seem like that big of a deal, they can be an indicator of stress on your plant which could potentially be fatal for it!
DO NOT confuse the yellowing for “aesthetic” as that discoloration could be your sign to make certain changes to either the plant’s environment or care procedure.
