Asparagus densiflorus is actually one of the undemanding, relatively robust plants. But even ornamental asparagus is not immune to diseases and pests, which is often reflected in the discoloration of the false leaves. You can find out in this article what else can be to blame for the yellowing of the leaves and what you can do about it.
Why is my ornamental asparagus turning yellow?
Ornamental asparagus turns yellow due to care errors such as inadequate watering or fertilization, root rot caused by too much water, or infestation by sucking pests such as spider mites and scale insects. Adjust the care accordingly and treat the plant with suitable products if pest infestation occurs.
Care errors
If the leaves of the ornamental asparagus turn yellow and the fragile leaves begin to fall, you have most likely forgotten to water or fertilize.
Remedy
- Water ornamental asparagus whenever the substrate feels dry on the surface (thumb test).
- Repot the plant at least every two to three years. If the pot is too small, the little remaining soil can no longer store nutrients.
- Add green plant fertilizer (€7.00 on Amazon) to the irrigation water regularly in the dosage stated on the packaging.
Root rot
If you were too intentional about watering and did not dump excess water in the saucer, root rot could be the cause of the wilting shoots. Due to the lack of ventilation of the over-wetted substrate, the storage organs begin to rot and can no longer supply the plant with sufficient water and nutrients.
If you pull the ornamental asparagus out of the pot, you will notice a musty smell. If you free the roots from the soil, they are no longer crunchy, but soft and mushy.
Remedy
Wrap the storage organs several times in kitchen towels, this will draw the excess water out of the soil and from the roots. Then place the plant in fresh substrate and water significantly less in the future.
Infestation with sucking insect pests
Unfortunately, ornamental asparagus is relatively often attacked by spider mites. It is difficult to see the small animals in the delicate foliage of the plant with the naked eye. However, these can be recognized by the fine, white webs.
Remedy
Since spider mites prefer a warm, dry environment, you should spray the ornamental asparagus daily with low-lime, room-temperature water as a preventive measure.
You can save infected plants as follows:
- Place ornamental asparagus in the shower tray and shower with a gentle jet. Also wet the undersides of the leaves, as the animals prefer to settle there.
- Put a large plastic bag over the plant.
- Seal the bag at the edge of the pot with a rubber band or string.
- Leave like this for at least 48 hours.
- Repeat treatment several times if necessary.
Tip
Scale insects can also cause the leaves to turn yellow. You can recognize the animals by their curved shell. Since these insect pests, like mealybugs, are extremely stubborn, we recommend using a suitable insecticide from a gardening store in the event of an infestation.
