While the magnificent spherical flowers of the ornamental onion glow purple in summer, some gardeners are watching with concern as the leaves of the allium are already turning yellow. Fortunately, there is usually only a harmless cause behind it.
Why do the leaves of the ornamental onion turn yellow?
Ornamental onions get yellow leaves because they retreat over the course of the growing season and nutrients flow into the bulb. This is important for the plant to be able to sprout again next year. Pests, fungi, a location that is too moist or a lack of nutrients can also be causes.
Why does ornamental onion have yellow leaves?
The fact that the leaves of the Allium turn yellow is because theyretract over the course of the growing season In some varieties this happens after flowering, in others during it. As a result, the leaves turn yellow, later brown and dry up completely by autumn.
Can I cut off the yellow leaves of the ornamental onion?
The yellow leaves shouldbe removed under no circumstances. The yellow color is a sign that nutrients from the leaves are flowing back into the bulb and are stored there over the winter. This process may look unsightly, but it is important for the plant so that it can grow strongly again next year. Give the leaves time to dry completely after flowering. You can only cut them off when they are completely dead.
How can I avoid the yellow leaves on the ornamental onion?
You can't avoid the yellow leaves of the ornamental onion, but you canhide them visually All you need is a few other perennials and grasses with which to transplant the ornamental onion. In the best case, the perennials cover the yellowing leaves, but provide a clear view of the decorative spherical flowers that protrude above them.
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Other possible causes for yellow leaves on ornamental onions
In addition to the usual yellowing of the leaves, which marks the beginning of drying out, the following causes can also cause yellow leaves: fungi, pests, a location that is too moist, a lack of nutrients