The umbrella plant is known for its distinct foliage that looks like an umbrella. Its name was derived from its long and glossy leaves that are green in color, elegantly drooping down from its stem.
However, sometimes umbrella plant leaves start turning brown, affecting the plant’s aesthetic appeal and causing alarm for gardeners. While there are several reasons why umbrella plant leaves may turn brown, it is fortunate that there are also a few solutions that can help return your plant to its former glory.
It is important to first identify the cause of the brown leaves before taking action, as this will help you determine which solution will be most effective.
Umbrella Plant Care Guide
Also known as Schefflera, the umbrella plant is a popular houseplant that is easy to care for. It can grow up to six feet tall and four feet wide, making it a great plant for filling empty spaces and adding a tropical flair to your home. The umbrella plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and prefers to be kept on the drier side. It grows well in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
As the plant does not like wet feet, allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before watering is necessary, and be sure to provide good drainage. It blooms in summer, producing white and pink flowers. However, you have to be careful because all parts of the plant are poisonous. It might be just mildly toxic to humans, but it can be lethal to animals, so keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Causes of Brown Leaves on Umbrella Plants
The plant’s name came from its shiny green leaves that resemble the form of an umbrella. Unfortunately, it can be stressful if those leaves begin to turn brown. If you notice your umbrella plant’s leaves are turning brown, it is important to take a closer look and try to identify the cause so that you can take the appropriate action.
Extremely Low Humidity Levels
These plants are native to tropical regions and require consistent humidity to thrive. If the air around your plant is too dry, the leaves will begin to turn brown and curl up at the edges. Umbrella plants prefer humid conditions and can suffer when placed in dry areas.
Excessive Sunlight
The umbrella plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but too much direct sun can cause the leaves to scorch and turn brown. In addition, the leaves of the plant are delicate and can sunburn easily when exposed to harsh, direct sunlight for extended periods.
Improper Watering
Brown leaves can also be caused by underwatering. The plant needs just the right amount of water to stay healthy, and if it doesn’t get enough, the leaves will start to turn brown and wilt. However, overwatering can also be the culprit, as this can cause the plant to become waterlogged and drown.
Fertilizer Burn
This occurs when too much fertilizer is applied or if the fertilizer is not diluted properly before being applied to the plant. The umbrella plant is overly sensitive to chemicals, so be careful not to over-fertilize and always dilute fertilizer according to package directions.
Pests or Diseases
Lastly, pests or diseases can also cause umbrella plant leaves to turn brown. Aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and other pests can infest the plant and suck out its sap. In turn, its leaves turn brown. Diseases such as powdery mildew or leaf spot can also cause this and should be treated promptly.
What to Do and How to Solve It
Once you have determined the cause of the brown leaves, you can take action to resolve the issue and return your plant to good health.
Maintain Humidity
To solve the moisture problem, try misting your plant regularly or placing it on a pebble tray filled with water. You can also try increasing the humidity in your home by using a humidifier or keeping a bowl of water near your plant.
Move to a Different Location
Transfer your plant to a location with less sun exposure if you notice the leaves starting to turn brown. If you notice that the browning is occurring on the side of the plant that is facing the window, try moving it to a different location in your home where it will receive indirect or filtered light instead.
Water According to Its Needs
Water your umbrella plant according to its needs, and be sure to provide good drainage. Be careful not to overwater. If you think you may have overwatered your plant, allow the soil to dry out completely and then start again with more moderate watering.
Fertilizer Properly
If you think fertilizer may be the cause of your plant’s brown leaves, stop fertilizing and flush the soil with water to remove any residual fertilizer. Once the plant has recovered, start fertilizing again but be sure to follow package directions carefully and never over-fertilize. Use only a half-strength solution of fertilizer and apply it every other week during the growing season.
Treat for Pests or Diseases
Check your plant for pests or diseases and treat accordingly if necessary. Be sure to follow all instructions when using pesticides or fungicides. These can also be harmful to your plant if used incorrectly. You may opt for a more natural approach by wiping the pests with a damp cloth with ethanol. You can also shower your plant with neem oil once.
Should the Brown Leaves Be Removed?
Once the leaves turn brown, it is impossible for them to return to their original green color. If the leaves are only slightly brown, you can leave them on the plant as they will eventually fall off on their own. However, remove them from the plant if the leaves are severely damaged. This way, your plant will be ale to focus its energy on new growth. To remove an entirely brown leaf, simply snip it off at the base with a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. If the leaf is brown only on the tip and edges, you may just trim off the damaged parts.
Umbrella Plant Leaves Turning Brown: Final Thoughts
Umbrella plants are generally easy to care for, but they can be sensitive to things like light, water, and fertilizer. If you notice the leaves turning brown, take a look at the plant’s environment.
Make sure it has everything it needs to stay healthy. It is important to identify the reason why the leaves are turning brown to ensure that you can take the proper steps to fix the issue and return your plant to good health. By doing so, you should be able to get your umbrella plant looking green and healthy in no time.