I have many different varieties of hibiscus in my rooftop garden. When my hibiscus bloomed, it filled my heart to its content. On the flip side, when I saw yellow leaves on them, I panicked. Gradually, I realized that although these yellow leaves might look alarming, they usually indicate stress rather than a serious or deadly condition.

 

Furthermore, I thought of yellow leaves as a warning signal rather than a diagnosis. Therefore, I decided to understand and identify the stressor to combat the problem.

 

Based on my decade-long experience, I have prepared this comprehensive guide that will help you explore the most common reasons why hibiscus leaves turn yellow and what you can do about it.

 

Why Are The Leaves On My Hibiscus Plant Turning Yellow And Falling Off?

 

 

I have clarified that hibiscus leaves turning yellow and falling off is a common stress reaction. Below I note down some potential causes and their solutions.

 

1. Not Enough Water:

 

If hibiscus plants are growing in warm conditions, it will require a lot of water. During hot or windy weather sometimes the plants require water more than once a day. Therefore, lack of water may lead to yellowing and dropped leaves.

 

2. Too Much Water:

Conversely, it is not wise to overwater hibiscus plants in cool or overcast weather because it stresses the root system. Although hibiscus like moist, they dislike soggy soil.

 

3. Too Hot:

Insufficient water supplies on the plants on scorching days force them to shed yellow leaves as they require reducing their water needs.

4. 
   Too Cold:

As hibiscuses are topical plants, they prefer temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C).Sudden exposure to cold can cause leaf yellowing.

 

5. Too Much Direct Sunlight:

 

Even though hibiscuses enjoy sunlight, excessive exposure to it can cause stress. This may result in yellow leaves or even hibiscus leaves turning yellow with brown spots or white “sunburn” marks

 

6. Too Little Sunlight:

Too much sunlight causes hibiscus leaves to turn yellow, similarly, too little sunlight does the same damage. Insufficient light leads to fewer resources for the plant to support its lush foliage

 

7. Insects: Mites and Spiders are the biggest enemies of green leaves. They cause leaf mottling, tiny webbing, and leaf loss. If you don’t take drastic measures to kill these insects, they will turn hibiscus leaves yellow and completely defoliation.

 

8. Too Windy:

Wind is one of the many reasons that can dry out hibiscus quickly, leading to yellow leaves and general plant stress.

 

9. Improper Nutrition or pH ~ Chlorosis:

Nutrient deficiencies or pH imbalances can lead to chlorosis—a condition where leaves appear part green and part yellow. Eventually, these may turn completely yellow and drop.

 

10. Pesticide Use:

Overuse, incorrect type, or spraying in hot sun can damage leaves. If you recently applied pesticide, this might be the reason.

 

 

What Fertilizer for Yellow Leaves on Hibiscus?

 

If you find out that your hibiscus leaves are turning yellow because of nutrition issues, you can use a balanced fertilizer and adjust soil pH. This will help you restore plant health.

 

Why Do Hibiscus Leaves Turn Yellow in Winter?

 

In winter there are cooler temperatures and less sunlight. Sometimes we overwater the plant and slow down the plant’s growth. These seasonal stressors cause leaf drop as the plant conserves energy.

 

Treatment for Yellow Leaves on Hibiscus:

 

After identifying the root cause of stress, you can take the following corrective actions:

 

• Remove the stressor: Adjust watering, lighting, or environmental conditions.
• Feed the plant: Use proper fertilizer if needed.
• Prune if necessary: If only a few leaves remain on a stem, pruning can stimulate new growth.
• Be patient: Once the cause is removed, hibiscus often regrows fresh green leaves.

 

Should I Cut Off Yellow Leaves on Hibiscus?:

 

Yes, you can cut the already damaged yellow leaves. If you don’t, they will fall off naturally.

I have mentioned several causes – Why Do Hibiscus Leaves Turn Yellow? However, yellowing can follow various changes in care or environment such as:

• After moving the plant indoors or outdoors
• After a weather change

After applying fertilizer or pesticides