Plant Problems & Leaf Discoloration

Leaf discoloration is one of the first signs a plant is under stress. Yellow, brown, purple, or white leaves usually point to a specific problem. This hub helps you identify common plant problems and understand what leaf color changes mean.

Common Leaf Discoloration Types

Yellow Leaves

Yellow leaves often signal nutrient or water issues.

Common causes: Overwatering. Poor drainage. Nitrogen deficiency. Root stress. Heat stress.

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Brown Leaves

Brown leaves usually indicate damage or stress.

Common causes: Underwatering. Salt buildup. Sun scorch. Transplant shock. Disease.

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Purple Leaves

Purple coloring is often linked to temperature or phosphorus issues.

Common causes: Cold stress. Phosphorus deficiency. Genetic response. Poor root development.

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White or Pale Leaves

White or faded leaves often relate to light or pest problems.

Common causes: Sunburn. Spider mites. Fungal infection. Variegation stress.

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Red or Unusual Color Changes

Red or blotchy leaves may appear due to stress or seasonal change.

Common causes: Temperature swings. Nutrient imbalance. Root restriction.

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Plant Problems by Cause

Watering Problems

Too much or too little water causes many leaf issues.

Signs include: Yellowing from the bottom. Wilting with wet soil. Leaf drop.

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Nutrient Deficiencies

Plants need balanced nutrients to maintain healthy leaf color.

Common deficiencies: Nitrogen → yellow leaves. Phosphorus → purple leaves. Potassium → brown edges.

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Heat, Cold & Environmental Stress

Weather stress often causes sudden color changes.

Includes: Heat scorch. Cold shock. Wind damage.

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Root & Soil Issues

Roots control nutrient and water uptake.

Common problems: Compacted soil. Poor drainage. Root-bound containers.

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Plant Problems by Plant Type

Vegetables

Vegetables show leaf stress quickly.

Common issues: Yellowing. Purple veins. Slow growth.

Herbs

Herbs are sensitive to water and spacing.

Common issues: Leaf browning. Fading color. Weak aroma.

Houseplants & Ornamentals

Indoor plants often react to light and humidity changes.

Common issues: Brown tips. Pale leaves. Sudden drop.

Prevention Tips (Quick Wins)

Use well-draining soil.

Match pot size to plant roots.

Avoid overwatering.

Feed plants lightly but consistently.

Adjust sunlight gradually.

Improve airflow in dense plantings.

Healthy leaves start with good basics.

Not sure what your plant is telling you? Browse the guides above to diagnose leaf discoloration and fix plant problems fast. Healthy leaves mean healthy plants.

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