If the fronds on your Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens) are turning yellow or brown and dying, several factors could be at play:
1. Underwatering
- Symptoms: Browning, crispy fronds.
- Solution: Ensure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Areca palms prefer slightly moist soil, so water when the top 1-2 inches feel dry.
2. Overwatering
- Symptoms: Yellowing fronds, mushy base, root rot.
- Solution: Make sure the plant is in well-draining soil and that the pot has drainage holes. Water less frequently, and let the soil dry out between waterings.
3. Low Humidity
- Symptoms: Brown leaf tips, dry fronds.
- Solution: Increase humidity by misting the leaves, placing the pot on a pebble tray with water, or using a humidifier.
4. Improper Light
- Symptoms: Yellowing fronds (low light) or scorched brown tips (too much direct sunlight).
- Solution: Areca palms prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can burn the leaves, and avoid placing them in too low light, which can cause yellowing.
5. Nutrient Deficiency
- Symptoms: Pale or yellow leaves.
- Solution: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Lack of magnesium, iron, or potassium can cause deficiencies.
6. Pests
- Symptoms: Small dots, webbing, or discoloration on fronds.
- Solution: Inspect for common pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
7. Natural Aging
- Symptoms: Older fronds yellowing and dying from the bottom.
- Solution: This is normal. Trim dead fronds to maintain the plant's appearance.
