8 Effective Ways To Revive A Yellow Money Plant

The money plant, also known as the Devil’s Ivy or Pothos, is a popular houseplant that’s admired for its low maintenance and air-purifying qualities. However, like all plants, it can sometimes face issues such as yellowing leaves. A yellow money plant can be a sign of underlying problems, and if not addressed, it could affect the overall health of the plant. Don’t worry—most of the time, yellowing leaves can be treated with some simple adjustments. Here are eight practical tips to help you revive your yellowing money plant and keep it thriving.

Check watering habits
One of the most common reasons for a money plant to develop yellow leaves is improper watering. Both overwatering and underwatering can cause the leaves to yellow and fall off. Overwatering can lead to waterlogged soil, causing the roots to rot, while underwatering can dry out the plant, making it weak.

To fix this, ensure that you water your money plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Make sure the pot has proper drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom. Use lukewarm water and water the plant deeply, allowing excess water to drain out.

Adjust the lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in the health of your money plant. Insufficient light or too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn yellow. Money plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate low-light conditions.

If your plant is in a spot with direct sunlight, it’s a good idea to move it to a place where it receives bright, filtered light. Avoid placing it near windows with harsh sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. Conversely, if your money plant is in a dark area, try moving it to a brighter spot to encourage healthier growth.

Improve soil drainage
Poor soil drainage can also lead to yellow leaves. If the soil retains too much moisture, it can cause root rot, which eventually leads to yellowing leaves. Money plants prefer well-draining soil to allow their roots to breathe.

If you suspect the soil isn’t draining well, consider repotting the plant in a fresh, well-draining potting mix. You can improve drainage by mixing equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss or sand. This will allow excess water to escape and prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged.

Check for pests
Pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs can also cause the leaves of your money plant to turn yellow. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, weakening it and causing discolouration.

Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pests, such as tiny insects or webbing on the leaves. If you notice any infestations, you can wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use a mild insecticidal soap. Neem oil is another effective natural remedy for keeping pests at bay.

Trim yellow leaves
Once a leaf turns yellow, it won’t return to its green colour. It’s essential to trim off any yellow or dead leaves to promote new growth and prevent the spread of damage to other parts of the plant.

Use clean, sharp scissors to remove yellow leaves at the base of the stem. This will help the plant focus its energy on producing healthy new leaves and maintaining its overall vitality.

Check for root rot
Yellowing leaves can often indicate root rot, especially if the soil has been consistently wet. To check for root rot, gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Healthy roots should be white or light brown and firm, while rotting roots will appear black, mushy, and have a foul smell.

If you find root rot, trim away the affected roots using sterilised scissors. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil, and adjust your watering habits to prevent future issues.

Use fertiliser sparingly
While fertiliser can promote growth, over-fertilising can lead to yellowing leaves and salt build-up in the soil. Money plants don’t require heavy fertilisation, so it’s best to use a diluted, balanced houseplant fertiliser once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

If you suspect over-fertilisation, flush the soil with water to remove excess salts, and reduce fertiliser application in the future. Be cautious, as using too much fertiliser can do more harm than good.

Maintain proper humidity
Money plants prefer moderate humidity levels, and dry indoor air can cause stress, leading to yellowing leaves. This is especially common during the winter months when indoor heating can dry out the air.

To revive a yellow money plant , consider increasing humidity around the plant. You can do this by placing a humidifier nearby, misting the leaves regularly, or placing the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water. This will create a more humid environment and help the plant thrive.

Reviving a yellowing money plant is possible with a few simple adjustments. By checking your watering habits, providing proper lighting, ensuring good soil drainage, and addressing potential pest problems, you can bring your money plant back to health. With these eight practical tips, your money plant will return to its lush, vibrant green, adding beauty and vitality to your home once again.