Cacti, with their unique shapes and minimal care requirements, have become increasingly popular as houseplants.
However, owning a cactus isnt always smooth sailing.
Many cactus owners have encountered an alarming problem their once vibrant green plants turning yellow.
This color change can be disconcerting and leave many wondering what theyre doing wrong.
Their natural color is typically a vibrant green, which is a result of the chlorophyll they contain.
Chlorophyll is a crucial component in the process of photosynthesis, where plants convert sunlight into energy.
One of the most distinctive features of a cactus is its ability to store water.
Unlike other plants, cacti have adapted to survive in environments with minimal rainfall.
They have thick, fleshy stems that can absorb and hold large amounts of water during rare rainfalls.
This water reservoir helps them endure long periods of drought.
Moreover, cacti have modified leaves known as spines which serve multiple purposes.
Common Reasons for Cacti Turning Yellow
1.
Overwatering
One of the mostcommon reasonsfor a cactus turning yellow isoverwatering.
Cacti aredesert plantsthat have evolved to survive in low-water environments, so they dont respond well to excessive moisture.
Overwatering can lead to waterlogging and root rot, both of which can cause your cactus to turn yellow.
Additionally, overwatered cacti can become swollen and soft, as they absorb more water than they can store.
This can cause the cells to rupture, leading to discoloration and potential plant death if not addressed promptly.
Underwatering
Just as overwatering can be detrimental to cacti, so too can underwatering.
Cacti are drought-tolerant plants, meaning they can survive with less water than most other plants.
However, they still require some moisture to thrive.
An underwatered cactus cant perform photosynthesis efficiently, which might lead to discoloration.
Recognizing the signs of an underwatered cactus can help you take corrective action before its too late.
Most species of cacti require at least four to six hours of sunlight daily to thrive.
Different species of cacti have varying sunlight needs.
Desert cacti, for instance, thrive in direct sunlight, while tropical cacti prefer indirect sunlight.
When a cactus doesnt receive enough sunlight, it can experience several problems.
This can lead to the cactus becoming weak and unstable, potentially causing it to fall over.
Another common symptom of insufficient sunlight is discoloration.
Without enough light, the cactus may produce less chlorophyll, leading to a pale or yellowish color.
Additionally, a lack of sunlight can hamper the cactuss ability to produce flowers.
In severe cases, prolonged lack of sunlight can even lead to the death of the cactus.
4.Nutrient Deficiency
Nutrients play a crucial role in the health and development of cacti.
Phosphorus is necessary for energy transfer and storage, and it also aids in root development.
Potassium plays a vital role in plant metabolism and helps with water uptake1.
These nutrients are required in smaller amounts but are still crucial for the plants overall health and development.
Nutrient deficiencies can manifest in various ways in cacti.
Always follow the package instructions to avoid over-fertilization, which can be just as harmful as nutrient deficiency.
Feeding Cacti Plants: When And How To Fertilize A Cactus.
Plant Nutrient Functions and Deficiency and Toxicity Symptoms.
Diagnosing Nutrient Deficiencies in Plants.
Disease and Pests
Several common diseases and pests can cause yellowing in cacti.
Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases can be identified by yellow or white spots on the cactus.
Treatment typically involves removing the infected parts of the plant and applying a fungicide.
They can be removed manually or treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: Spider mites can be identified by yellowing and stippling on the cactus and thin webbing.
They can be treated with insecticidal soap or a miticide.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs look like small, white, fuzzy spots on the cactus.
They can be removed manually or treated with insecticidal soap or alcohol.
These include overwatering, poor drainage, inadequate sunlight, nutrient deficiency, and pest or disease infestation.
To prevent these issues, its important to provide your cactus with proper care.
If your cactus has already turned yellow, start by identifying the potential cause and adjust your care accordingly.
Treat diseases and pests promptly and consider repotting your cactus if the problem is severe.
Taking care of a cactus, like any other plant, requires patience and understanding.
Each cactus is unique and might require different care routines.
Remember, its okay if you dont get everything perfect right away.
Keep observing, keep learning, and most importantly, enjoy the rewarding journey of cactus care.
Gardening Know How. ↩︎
