How to Prevent Hibiscus Leaves From Turning Yellow

Hibiscus plants are a genus of flowering plants belonging to the mallow family (*Malvaceae*). There are over 200 species of hibiscus plants, but the three main varieties include hardy hibiscus, rose of Sharon (common hibiscus), and tropical hibiscus. The color and size of hibiscus flowers and foliage vary depending on the species, but generally speaking, healthy hibiscus plants have green leaves with large, colorful flowers. Leaf discoloration is a common problem that afflicts tropical hibiscus. Hibiscus leaves turn yellow when they are not receiving proper care or experience extreme environmental changes. Hibiscus leaf yellowing is usually caused by one of the following factors. 1. __Inadequate light__: Hibiscus leaves can turn yellow if they are not receiving enough light. As tropical plants, hibiscus plants need full sun to partial shade to thrive. Too much direct sunlight can result in leaf sunburn, causing little white spots to appear on the foliage. However, too little light will not allow the plant to produce enough chlorophyll to keep the foliage green. 2. __Temperature changes__: Extreme heat and cold can cause your hibiscus leaves to turn yellow as can extreme changes in humidity levels. 3. __Nutrient deficiency__: Yellowing leaves on your hibiscus could be caused by a lack of nutrients. Nutrient deficient hibiscus plants can develop iron chlorosis, causing the leaves to turn yellow with green veins. 4. __Too little or too much watering__: Tropical hibiscus plants generally require lots of water, but too much or too little water can cause yellowing leaves. Overwatering can lead to root rot as well. 5. __Environmental changes__: Hibiscus plant leaves are sensitive to changes in the surrounding environment. If you have recently moved a potted hibiscus or transplanted it to a new area of your garden, you can expect the leaves to turn yellow. 6. __Insect infestation__: Hibiscus is prone to infestation by spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Damage from pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow. Check the underside of leaves for marks left behind by mites. To grow hibiscus properly, follow these hibiscus care tips. 1. __Provide full sun with partial shade__. Hibiscus plants need plenty of full sun but should be protected from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day. If the leaves are yellowing, move the plant to an area where it can receive full sun in the morning and shade in the afternoon. 2. __Maintain evenly moist soil__. Regular watering is recommended to keep the soil sufficiently moist—particularly during the summertime growing season. Unless you’re experiencing severe drought in your region, you can reduce the watering frequency during the dormancy period. A layer of mulch at the base of an outdoor plant can help retain soil moisture. 3. __Ensure that potted plants are in well-draining soil__. Houseplants should be kept in pots with drainage holes to avoid soaking and damaging the root system. 4. __Fertilize or amend the soil__. If your hibiscus is planted in a potting mix that is too alkaline or too acidic, it can prevent the uptake of nutrients. The ideal [soil pH](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/essential-guide-to-soil-ph-guide) level for hibiscus plants is between six and seven. Applying a fertilizer specially formulated for hibiscus plants is the best way to ensure the plant gets enough nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can also amend the soil with a small amount of Epsom salt (one tablespoon or less), which can increase the plant's ability to absorb nutrients. 5. __Protect your hibiscus from harsh conditions__. Increase watering during a heatwave to ensure that your plant has enough water. If you live in a temperate climate, move your potted hibiscus indoors during the cold winter months. 6. __Allow slow adaptation to change__. If you plan to bring your hibiscus indoors for the winter, move the houseplant inside starting in the fall before you turn your heat on. This will give your plant time to adjust to the change in environment. 7. __Protect your hibiscus from pests__. If you suspect your plant has become infested by pests, spray the entire plant with soapy water, insecticidal soap, [neem oil](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/neem-oil-for-plants), or an organic pesticide. Grow your own garden with Ron Finley, the self-described "Gangster Gardener." Get the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com/) and learn how to cultivate fresh herbs and vegetables, keep your house plants alive, and use compost to make your community - and the world - a better place. Yellowing leaves is a common problem among tropical hibiscus plants. Proper hibiscus care can prevent wilting, encourage new growth, and keep your entire plant healthy.