Yellowing leaves, pale leaves, or small leaves on money plants are usually caused by poor nutrition, inappropriate watering, or improper lighting conditions. The care of money plant leaves is especially essential when growth rates slow down and discolouration appears as a lack of green colour in young leaves. One way to revive a money plant from such problems is through regular application of liquid fertiliser twice weekly, combined with proper watering. Poor nutrient levels, overwatering, and inadequate lighting are among the factors commonly attributed to the yellowing of money plant leaves.
Why Money Plant Leaves Turn Yellow and Stay Small
Yellow leaves generally indicate that the plant is stressed. Some common causes include:
- Over-watering: This can affect roots and stop nutrient intake.
- Under-watering: Leads to dehydration and poor growth.
- Insufficient light: Limits energy production for the plant.
- Nutrient deficiency: Particularly nitrogen deficiency.
- Small pots: Roots cannot spread properly.
According to information from the Biotechnology Research Center at The University of Tokyo, one of the most common reasons old leaves turn yellow due to nutrient deficiency is a lack of nitrogen. Nitrogen is a primary nutrient, and nitrogen limitation frequently occurs as a bottleneck for plant growth and development.
One Thing to Do Every 15 Days for Faster Money Plant Growth
The easiest method is to apply a diluted liquid fertiliser high in nitrogen content every 15 days. Here is how it helps:
- Nitrogen facilitates chlorophyll formation, ensuring leaves are green.
- It promotes larger leaves.
- It assists in forming better vines and roots.
- Leaves grow quicker and are more fully formed.
According to gardening experts, a proper dose is a diluted version of fertiliser for indoor plants instead of using excessive amounts, which can burn root systems and make leaf tips turn yellow. One of the main nutrients that contribute to healthy leaf development in pothos, also known as the money plant in India, is nitrogen.
Best Sunlight and Watering Tips for Healthy Money Plants
Apart from fertilising, proper maintenance is equally important. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- The plant should be placed in a location where it receives bright but indirect light.
- It should not receive direct sunlight since the sun might burn its leaves.
- Water only when the topsoil feels dry to the touch.
- Always use pots with holes for draining.
- Never let the roots remain in standing water for too long.
According to plant experts, over-watering or under-watering may result in yellow leaves. Over-watered plants will develop weak stems, whereas under-watered plants will have dry leaves.
How to Get Bigger and Greener Money Plant Leaves
If you wish for bigger leaves and thicker vines, follow these tips:
- Prune off dead or yellow leaves from time to time.
- Turn the plant daily to encourage even growth.
- Dust the leaves to optimise their photosynthetic capacity.
- Re-pot the plant when there is root congestion.
- Feed the plant on a routine basis in spring and summer.
Insufficient light and a lack of nutrients cause small leaves and slow growth. Proper light and nutrition aid in producing better leaves.
Signs Your Money Plant Is Recovering
In just a matter of weeks, you will see signs of:
- Emerging new green sprouts.
- Big and vibrant leaves.
- Quick-growing vines.
- Fewer yellowing leaves.
- Strengthened stems and root systems.
Money plants are known to be tough houseplants. Usually, adjusting their watering routine, giving them better lighting conditions, and feeding them once every 15 days is sufficient to restore normal growth. Just a little care and some nutrients, and your struggling money plant will again start developing beautiful green leaves and strong growth.
