What is the reason why the leaves of Podocarpus turn yellow and dry?

Podocarpus is famous for its unique leaves, which are strip-lanceolate and very different from the needle-shaped leaves of traditional pine trees. As a positive tree species, Podocarpus has good shade tolerance, which makes it easy to maintain even families without a garden, making it a favorite of bonsai enthusiasts. But sometimes, the leaves of Podocarpus that have been raised for many years will also turn yellow. Let’s learn together why the leaves of Podocarpus turn yellow and dry.

1. Insufficient light

Podocarpus requires full sun to maintain healthy growth. Insufficient light may cause yellowing of leaves. The solution is to move the Podocarpus to a location with better light.

2. Watering problem

Podocarpus prefers a humid environment, but water accumulation in the pot will cause the leaves to turn yellow. During the growing period, keep the soil slightly moist, and water thoroughly after the soil is completely dry. Water thoroughly in the morning and evening in summer to prevent yellowing of the leaves.

4. Insufficient fertilizer

Podocarpus likes fertilizer, and lack of fertilizer will cause the leaves to turn yellow and dry. Fertilization should follow the principle of "small amounts of fertilizer but frequent application", with nitrogen fertilizer as the main fertilizer. Black alum can be added to make alum fertilizer water. Fertilize once every 1-2 months during the growing season, combined with watering, with the ratio of fertilizer to water being 1:9.

5. Pests and diseases

Foot rot and leaf spot are common diseases of Podocarpus, which can cause yellowing of leaves and, in severe cases, death of the plant. Check the health of the roots regularly and prune if there is any rot. Leaf spot disease can be controlled by spraying 500 times diluted 75% thiophanate-methyl for 2-3 times, once a week.

6. Environmental factors

Excessively high temperatures or dry environments can also cause the leaves of Podocarpus to turn yellow. In summer, the temperature should be lowered appropriately, the plants should be placed in a cool and ventilated place, and the air humidity can be increased by spraying water.

In summary, the yellowing of Podocarpus leaves may be caused by light, watering, fertilization, pests and diseases, and environmental factors. The problem of yellowing leaves can be effectively solved by providing sufficient light, watering properly, fertilizing regularly, preventing and controlling pests and diseases in a timely manner, and adjusting environmental conditions.