Why Are the Leaves of the Money Tree Turning Black? Here Are the Causes and Solutions
The money tree (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a very common ornamental plant in our daily lives, and it is grown across a very wide area in China. The money tree has very high ornamental value, so it is also very popular with many people. However, when growing a money tree, the phenomenon of its leaves turning black often occurs, so why are the leaves of the money tree turning black? Below, the editor will give you a brief introduction, so let's take a look!
1. Overwatering
The leaves of the money tree are very thick and fleshy, with a relatively high water content, and the underground stem of the money tree is also very rich in water, so its drought tolerance is very strong. Therefore, when caring for a money tree, we should be careful not to water it too much, and watering should not be too frequent. Over a long period, the soil easily becomes waterlogged, which obstructs root respiration and leads to the leaves turning black. At this point, watering should be stopped promptly, then ventilation should be provided immediately to let the moisture dry out. After the plant gradually recovers, reduce the frequency of watering, following the watering principle of watering when the soil is dry and withholding water when it is moist.
2. Excessive Light
The money tree is actually a plant that likes to grow in an environment with sufficient light. But even so, its tolerance for strong light is relatively poor. The money tree must never be left exposed to the sun for a long time; over time, this will hinder its metabolism, and the leaves will gradually turn yellow and black. This is especially true in summer, when the light is stronger. If the leaves turn yellow due to excessive light, then the black and yellow leaves should be cut off promptly, and then the plant should be moved to a place with soft light for care. In summer, be sure to do a good job of shading, and do not let it be exposed to the blazing sun.
3. Unsuitable Temperature
The money tree likes to grow in a warm environment, and its tolerance for high temperatures is also relatively strong, but it is not cold-tolerant. Therefore, in winter, we must be sure to do a good job of cold protection and heat preservation. If the temperature is not well controlled in a low-temperature environment in winter, then the money tree plant is extremely prone to frost damage. After frost damage, yellow and black leaves will appear. Therefore, in winter, we should move the plant indoors. The temperature should be kept at least above 10°C to avoid frost injury, ensure that the money tree can overwinter safely and grow normally, and reduce the phenomenon of leaves turning black.
4. Pests and Diseases
Pests and diseases are also a main cause of the money tree's leaves turning black. When growing a money tree, if the environment is unsuitable, then the plant is extremely prone to infection by pests and diseases, and the main targets of many pests and diseases are the leaves. After the leaves are damaged, they will naturally turn black. For leaves that have turned black due to pests and diseases, we should cut them off promptly to prevent the condition from spreading. Then, apply the appropriate treatment according to the specific pest or disease; if it is a soil infection, then the soil should be replaced promptly with new soil.
The above is a brief introduction to why the leaves of the money tree turn black. That is all for today's introduction. This article is for reference only, and we hope it can help you!