Chinese money plants, also known as pancake plants, are one of the most popular houseplants around. Their easy care requirements and unique round leaves make them a great addition to any indoor jungle. However, even the best cared for plants can run into problems. One of the most common issues is leaves turning black.
So what causes black spots or patches on Chinese money plant leaves? There are a few key reasons this unsightly symptom can appear Read on to learn why it happens and how to fix it
Overwatering
The #1 cause of Chinese money plant leaves turning black is overwatering. These plants do best in evenly moist soil, but root rot happens when they sit in wet soil for too long. This fungal disease stops the roots from properly taking in water. When the leaves don’t get enough water, they turn black and wilt.
Overwatering is far more likely to cause problems than under watering. Make sure the pot has drainage holes and use a fast draining potting mix. Only water when the top inch of soil is dry. Pour out excess water that collects in cache pots after 30 minutes.
If you suspect root rot, allow the plant to dry out completely before watering less frequently. Severely affected plants may need repotting to refresh the roots
Poor Water Quality
China money plants don’t mind bad water, but black leaf spots can happen if the water isn’t good. Water that is hard and full of minerals leaves deposits on plants. Over time, these build up and block the pores of the leaves, causing burn spots.
Use distilled, rain or filtered water where possible. If using tap, allow it to sit out overnight first so the chlorine can evaporate. Flushing the soil every few months will prevent excess mineral salts.
Fungal Diseases
Leaf spot diseases caused by fungi, such as anthracnose and septoria, can kill Chinese money plants. These make the leaves get little black spots that get bigger over time. High humidity and wet foliage encourage fungal growth.
Prune off infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Allow plants to dry out between waterings. You can apply neem oil or copper fungicide sprays as a preventative treatment. Improve air circulation around plants.
Cold Damage
Chinese money plants prefer warm conditions between 60-80°F. Temperatures below 50°F can damage leaves. You might see black spots on leaves that are out in the cold. When it’s cold outside, try to keep plants away from windows and vents that let in drafts. Move to a warmer spot in the house if needed.
Pests
Sap sucking pests like spider mites, mealybugs and aphids can all feed on Chinese money plant leaves. They extract nutrients and fluids, leaving behind yellowish dots that turn black over time. Treat any infestations immediately by spraying off pests and applying insecticidal soap.
Isolate affected plants and check thoroughly for bugs. Trim off badly damaged foliage. Maintain vigilant monitoring for future pest problems.
Sunburn
Chinese money plants grow best in bright, indirect light. But leaves exposed to hot direct sunlight can get sunburnt. This appears as black or brown crispy patches, usually on the sides facing the light source.
Sunburn can happen if a plant is suddenly moved into brighter light without proper acclimation. Introduce plants to increased light levels slowly over several weeks. Keep plants out of direct afternoon sun streaming through windows.
Fluctuating Conditions
Chinese money plants don’t like rapidly changing conditions. Things like temperatures swinging up and down or light increasing and decreasing suddenly can stress them out. This leads to black leaf tips and margins as the plant struggles to adjust.
Try to maintain stable conditions as much as possible. Make environmental changes gradually over time rather than all at once. Avoid placing plants in drafty areas or moving them around frequently.
Older Leaves
As Chinese money plants mature and gain height, older leaves near the base naturally age and drop off. These oldest leaves will often turn yellow or brown before falling. Unless many leaves are rapidly turning black, this is nothing to worry about.
Prune off the old foliage to keep your plant looking tidy. Focus on taking good care of the younger leaves higher up on the stem. Your plant is simply transitioning leaves as it grows taller.
Solutions For Black Leaves
If your Chinese money plant is developing black leaves or leaf spots, take action right away. Here are some tips to get it back to health:
- Check soil moisture and water only when partly dry
- Move plant to warmer area away from drafts
- Prune off badly affected leaves
- Apply copper fungicide if fungal disease is present
- Treat any pests you find immediately
- Flush soil to remove mineral deposits
- Repot plant in fresh potting mix if root rot is severe
- Increase light levels gradually if previously too low
With quick intervention, you can resolve many causes of Chinese money plant black leaves. Consistent and attentive care will prevent most issues from recurring in the future. Your plant will soon be back to showing off its beautiful, perky green pancake leaves.
Chinese money plants are easy to care for houseplants, but they can develop some problems like black leaf spots. Overwatering is the most common cause, but pests, diseases and environmental factors can also lead to blackening leaves. Catch issues early and alter care to improve conditions. Remove damaged foliage and treat any pests or infections present. With the right adjustments, your Chinese money plant will be thriving again in no time!
Item added to your cart
Nothing can be more disheartening than noticing your beloved money trees leaves turning black. As a plant parent, its natural to worry and wonder whats going on. After all, youve done your best to give it love and care, so why is it having such a tough time?.
This article will explore various reasons why your money trees leaves might be turning black. From environmental factors to pests and diseases, well cover it all. Plus, youll find actionable tips and tricks to help nurse your plant back to health.
Pot and Soil Considerations
The right pot and soil can make a big difference in your money trees health.
- Pot Choice: Ensure your pot has proper drainage holes. This keeps water from pooling at the bottom, which lowers the risk of root rot.
- Type of Soil: Use a cactus or succulent mix or soil that drains well. This makes it easy for extra water to drain, which keeps the roots healthy.
You can also give your plant new nutrients and help it grow by repotting it every two years or when the roots get too tight.
Stop Leaf Drop On Your Chinese Money Plant
FAQ
Why are my Chinese money plant leaves turning black?
Black spots signal infections, often due to overwatering or high humidity.Jun 8, 2024
What to do when money plant leaves turn black?
Light is another crucial factor in your money tree’s health. While it loves bright, indirect sunlight, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, causing them to turn black. Direct sunlight: If your plant is next to a window that gets direct afternoon sun, move it to a spot where the light is filtered.
What does it mean if plant leaves turn black?
Nutritional imbalances can lead to blackened leaves as well. Lack of certain nutrients, like iron or magnesium, can lead to chlorosis, a condition in which leaves turn yellow and then black. On the other hand, excessive levels of certain nutrients, such as nitrogen, can result in leaf burn and blackening. Oct 2, 2023.