Quick Answers
There are a few potential reasons why the leaves on your bird of paradise plant may be turning yellow:
- Overwatering
- Underwatering
- Low humidity
- Too much sun
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Pests
The most common causes are overwatering, underwatering, and low humidity. Check your watering schedule and humidity levels first. Bird of paradise prefers evenly moist (not soggy) soil and humidity levels between 50-60%.
You’ll need to address any cultural issues first before determining if pests or diseases may be a factor. Leaf yellowing is typically the plant’s way of communicating that something is wrong with its growing conditions.
Why Do Bird of Paradise Leaves Turn Yellow?
Bird of paradise leaves can turn yellow for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common causes:
Overwatering
One of the most common reasons for yellow leaves on bird of paradise plants is overwatering. Bird of paradise prefers evenly moist, but not wet soil. If the plant is watered too often, excess moisture prevents the roots from getting enough oxygen. This causes root rot and makes the plant unable to absorb nutrients properly. As a result, the leaves turn yellow.
Underwatering
While bird of paradise doesn’t like soggy soil, the plant also needs a regular supply of moisture. If the plant goes too long between waterings, it can cause stress and leaf yellowing. The soil should be allowed to partially dry out between waterings, but not completely.
Low Humidity
Bird of paradise thrives in humid conditions. In their native tropical habitat, these plants enjoy 50-70% humidity on average. If the humidity drops below 50%, the leaves may start to yellow. Modern homes are often dry due to heating and air conditioning. This can make it difficult to keep humidity levels high enough for bird of paradise.
Too Much Sun
While bird of paradise needs plenty of bright, indirect light, too much direct sun can cause leaf scorching. If the plant sits in hot, afternoon sun, the leaves may turn yellow, dry out, and brown around the edges. Filtered sunlight from an east or west window is ideal.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Lack of nutrients can also cause yellowing leaves. Bird of paradise is a heavy feeder and needs regular fertilizer to stay healthy. Depleted soil and irregular feeding can lead to deficiencies in key nutrients like nitrogen, iron, magnesium, and manganese.
Pests
Common houseplant pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scales can sometimes infest bird of paradise plants. An infestation can weaken and stress the plant, causing yellowing leaves. Check for any signs of bugs on the leaves and stems.
Diseases
Fungal diseases like leaf spot, botrytis, and bacterial blight can also cause yellowing. These problems are usually associated with overly wet conditions. Avoid watering from above and remove affected foliage to prevent disease spread.
Correct Watering for Bird of Paradise Plants
Proper watering is crucial to keep your bird of paradise healthy and prevent leaf yellowing. Here are some tips:
- Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry.
- Always check the soil moisture before watering – don’t water on a set schedule.
- Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom drainage holes.
- Dump out any water in the saucer so the plant isn’t left sitting in water.
- Aim for moist, but not constantly soggy soil.
The specific watering frequency will vary based on factors like temperature, humidity, light exposure, plant size, and time of year. In general, established bird of paradise plants need a thorough watering about once a week during the growing season. Back off on watering in winter when growth slows.
Signs of Underwatering
- Wilting or drooping leaves
- Leaf yellowing and browning
- Dry, shriveled leaves
- Stunted new growth
- Soil is completely dry
Signs of Overwatering
- Leaves turn yellow
- Leaf drop
- Spongy or mushy roots
- Root rot
- Moldy soil
- Soft, rotting lower leaves
Ideal Humidity for Bird of Paradise
Bird of paradise thrives in humid conditions between 50-70%. Lower humidity can cause stressed, yellowing leaves. Here are some tips to boost humidity:
- Use a humidifier near your plant to keep humidity levels stable.
- Group plants together to create a natural humidity microclimate.
- Set the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
- Mist the plant daily using a spray bottle.
- Increase ambient humidity by running a dehumidifier in your home.
Monitor with a hygrometer. Maintain 50% humidity at the minimum for healthy bird of paradise growth.
Best Light Conditions for Bird of Paradise
Bird of paradise needs plenty of bright, natural light to grow well and produce flowers. But too much direct sun can scorch the leaves. Follow these light guidelines:
- Place in an east or west facing window for ideal bright, filtered light.
- South facing windows work if you diffuse the light with a sheer curtain.
- Avoid hot afternoon sun exposure, especially in summer.
- Supplement with a grow light if indoor light is low.
- Rotate the plant periodically for even growth.
Leaf scorch and yellowing is a sign the plant is getting too much direct sunlight. Filter the light or move the plant if this occurs.
Fertilizer for Bird of Paradise Plants
To prevent nutrient deficiencies and yellow leaves, feed bird of paradise regularly during spring through fall:
- Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
- Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the active growing season.
- Avoid high nitrogen formulas which can cause excessive foliage growth.
- Stop feeding in winter when plant growth naturally slows.
- Apply new potting mix if repotting to refresh the soil nutrients.
Choose a fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering houseplants. Follow the label directions to determine dosage and frequency.
How to Treat Pests on Bird of Paradise
Spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and scales are common bird of paradise pests. Here’s how to treat an infestation:
- Isolate the affected plant to prevent spread.
- Hose down the plant thoroughly with water to wash away pests.
- Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove bugs.
- Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap according to label directions.
- Apply neem oil for added pest control.
- Repeat treatments weekly until pests are gone.
Catching infestations early makes treatments more effective. Check the plant routinely and treat at the first sign of bugs.
How to Treat Diseases of Bird of Paradise
Fungal or bacterial diseases usually cause leaf spotting or rot. Treat disease as follows:
- Prune off any severely infected leaves and dispose of them.
- Disinfect your pruning tools after each cut.
- Apply a fungicide specifically for ornamental plants.
- Improve air circulation around the plant.
- Water early in the day so leaves can dry out.
- Avoid wetting the leaves when watering.
Prevention is key – avoid wet leaves, improve airflow, follow proper watering practices, and prune off infected parts promptly.
When to Repot a Bird of Paradise
Repotting provides fresh soil and room for root growth. Time to repot bird of paradise when:
- Roots are crowding the pot and starting to grow out of the drainage holes.
- You need to refresh the potting mix to improve drainage.
- The plant is top heavy and tipping over from lack of roots.
- Growth has stalled due to lack of root space.
Choose a pot one size larger and use fresh potting mix amended with perlite for drainage. Repot in early spring right before the growing season.
Conclusion
Yellow leaves on bird of paradise are usually caused by cultural problems like improper watering, low humidity, insufficient light, and poor soil quality. Inspect your plant care regimen and make adjustments to improve conditions. Address pests, diseases, and nutrients only after correcting any environmental issues. With proper care, bird of paradise will reward you with vigorous growth, lush foliage, and spectacular blooms. Consistent moisture, humidity, bright light, fertilizer, and timely repotting are the keys to success.