The string of dolphins is a rare succulent that is found in the tropical parts of the world. However, due to its unique leaves that resemble leaping dolphins, it has gained increasing popularity among house plant enthusiasts.
While the leaves are normally green in color, they may sometimes turn yellow. It signifies that the plant is suffering from stress.
Stress can cause the plant to produce a pigment called carotenoid, which leads to the green coloration of the plant. This pigment is produced due to various stress factors, and if left untreated, it may cause serious damage to your string of dolphins. Thus, you need to take preventive measures to help ensure that the plant remains healthy.
Why is my string of dolphins turning yellow?
So, let us explore the factors that may lead to a yellow string of dolphins and the steps to prevent it –
- Moisture
- Sunlight
Moisture
The most common reason for a yellow string of dolphins is improper moisture in the plant. It may happen due to frequent watering of your plant. If you provide the plant with too much water, it may cause the roots of the plant to drown. It leads to oversaturation, and the leaves start to turn yellow and soggy due to the stress. If this is not treated immediately, it may lead to problems such as rotting in the plant and cause severe damage to it.
Solution
The ideal way to water the plant is to provide it with abundant water until the water starts to drip out of the drainage holes. However, ensure that there is no stagnant water left behind as it can be fatal to the health of the plant. Watering it once every week in the summer and once a month in winter is usually sufficient to keep the plant adequately hydrated.
Sunlight
Another reason for a yellowing or browning string of dolphins is sunburn. It happens due to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. The tissues of the plant are damaged, and the plant starts to turn yellow and eventually brown. The plant becomes dry and crisp. Sunburns are generally permanent, so it is best to take immediate steps to help control the extent of the damage.
Solution
Avoid leaving your plant in the sun for long hours, especially on days of extreme heat. In the case of indoor plants, remove the plant from sources of heat, such as heaters. In cases of severe sunburn, it is best to cut off the sunburnt areas and allow fresh growth of leaves.
Essentially, the browning or yellowing of the string of dolphins happens when the plant is unable to carry out the important life processes and produce its nutrition. It causes stress in the plants and forces them to produce carotenoids, due to which the plant turns yellow. So, always provide proper fertilizers and manures to a yellowing plant to help speed up the recovery of the plant.
Thus, these are the steps to help nurture your yellowing string of dolphins back to health.
