Yellow leaves on cyclamen is a very common problem. But the good news is that it’s not always something to worry about. In this post I’ll tell you all of the causes, and solutions to fix it.
One common issue that gardeners face with cyclamens is yellow leaves, and figuring out why it’s happening.
There are several possible reason why, which makes troubleshooting frustrating for beginners.
This guide will help you learn how to identify what’s causing yellowing leaves on your cyclamen, and how to deal with them.
Problem: Cyclamen Yellow Leaves
Yellowing leaves is one of the most common cyclamen problems, and I get asked about it all the time.
It can affect any variety, and sometimes there is more than one reason behind the issue.
The good news is that discovering the cause(s) can also help you fix it, well most of the time anyway. But it all starts with giving them the proper care, which you can learn all about here.
Why Are My Cyclamen Leaves Turning Yellow?
Yellow leaves are something that all cyclamen owners will deal with at some point, and that’s why I wrote this article.
Below I’ve listed the causes in order from the most common to the least. They can occur one at a time, or several can affect them all at once.
1. Dormancy
Yellowing leaves on your cyclamen can be a natural part of their lifecycle. After flowering ends in spring and summer, the warm temperatures trigger dormancy, and the leaves will begin to yellow.
It’s completely normal, and nothing to worry about. You can read all about it in my dormancy guide here.
However if the leaves are affected during the winter, then look into one of the other problems below.
2. Improper Watering
Over or under watering is another common cause. They don’t like soggy soil, and will droop and turn yellow when given too much.
On the other hand, if they’re allowed to dry out it can falsely signal to the plant that it’s time to enter the rest period.
3. Too hot
Cyclamen like it cool, so temperatures above 70°F can be another cause of yellowing leaves.
Heating vents, windows that receive direct sunlight, or other hot areas of the house or garden can expose them to more warmth than they prefer.
4. Too much sun
Too much sun, and the temperature increase that comes with it, can also be a factor.
Check to see if your plant is in a sunny window or direct exposure in the garden to determine if this is the issue.
5. Bugs
Cyclamen are susceptible to several houseplant pests, and each of them can lead to yellowing.
Spider mites, aphids, scale, and mealybugs are some of the most common ones that can damage the leaves.
How To Fix Yellow Leaves On Cyclamen
After you’ve determined what might be causing the yellow leaves on your cyclamen, the next step is to fix it. Here are my best tips on how to tackle each.
1. Ensure Proper Watering
Cyclamen prefer to be evenly and consistently moist, but too much will cause yellowing, and they don’t like wet foliage.
Let them dry out slightly between drinks, then water from the bottom rather than over the top of the leaves.
A moisture gauge is helpful if you’re unsure how to judge when it’s time. A self-watering pot can make it very simple for you too.
2. Keep Them Cool
The ideal temperature for cyclamen is between 50-70°F. Cooler temps help them flower longer and prevent premature yellowing.
Move them away from heat sources like vents, sunny windows, or hot appliances to help keep them in the lower end of that range.
3. Protect From Direct Sunlight
Direct sun is too harsh. It can make them too hot and burn the leaves.
Choose somewhere with filtered light indoors, or a window with only morning or evening sun exposure. Outdoors, partial shade is ideal.
4. Check For Bugs
Check the stems and both sides of the leaves for things like sticky substances, white cottony masses, bumpy clusters, or spider webbing.
Remove visible bugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or by wiping them down with a soft cloth dampened with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
I make my own with 1 teaspoon of mild liquid soap to 1 liter of water. Avoid spraying anything on the leaves.
FAQs
Here I’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions about yellowing cyclamen leaves. If yours isn’t on the list, please ask it in the comment section below.
Should I Remove Yellow Leaves From My Cyclamen?
Yes, you can remove yellowing leaves from your cyclamen. Simply cut them at the base with clean, sharp snips as needed. This will help keep it looking its best.
How Do You Keep Cyclamen Leaves From Turning Yellow?
The best way to keep cyclamen leaves from turning yellow is to maintain proper watering, temperature, and light exposure throughout the year. However, as they go dormant it is unavoidable and very natural.
Yellow leaves are a common issue that cyclamen plant owners face. With this guide to help you identify and resolve the causes, you’ll know how to fix it and stop it from happening in the future.
Maintaining healthy houseplants is key to preventing problems like this. So if you’re ready to learn how to get yours thriving, then you need my Houseplant Care eBook. It will show you all you need to know. Download your copy today!
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Share your fixes for yellow cyclamen leaves in the comments below.
Amy Andrychowicz
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