If the leaves on chilli plants turn yellow, there is an immediate need for action. Such a bad image signals that something is wrong. We explain how to identify the causes and present proven treatment methods.

This is how the diagnosis of chlorosis loses its fright

Whether hobby gardener or experienced farmer; the first thought of yellow leaves on chili is towards chlorosis. This is primarily due to a lack of iron. Depending on the symptoms, the plant may be lacking in nutrients. An overview:

  • young leaves turn yellow before the older ones: iron deficiency
  • older leaves turn yellow before the young ones: the main nutrients are missing
  • older leaves turn yellowish from the tip: lack of nitrogen
  • the leaves turn yellow without drying up: too much lime in the soil

It therefore depends on your powers of observation to make an accurate diagnosis. The treatment method will then take care of itself.

Targeted treatment of chlorosis

Once the trigger for chlorosis has been identified, the best chance of recovery is through the following measures:

  • Iron deficiency: fertilize with a special preparation
  • Compensate for nutrient deficiencies with compound fertilizers or organic fertilizers
  • Eliminate nitrogen deficiency by spraying the leaves with nettle broth
  • If the soil has too much lime content, only use lime-free irrigation water

Identify and fix other yellow leaf triggers

Although chillies prefer a sunny location, they react to the blazing midday sun with sunburn. This manifests itself in yellow leaves. Consequently, shading or relocation is recommended.

Take a look at the root ball. If waterlogging is revealed here, immediate repotting ends the dilemma. Drainage on the bottom of the pot made of coarse materials, such as gravel or expanded clay, helps prevent this.

If yellow leaves on chili dry up at the same time, aphids may be up to mischief. You can drive these pests away by vigorously rinsing them off with a curd soap solution or rock dust. In the greenhouse, the use of beneficial insects, such as predatory mites or lacewing larvae, has proven itself.

tips and tricks

Research into the cause of yellow leaves on chili is made much easier if the pH value of the substrate or the soil is known. You can determine the value yourself with a simple test. Inexpensive sets for just under 5 euros are available in every well-stocked hardware store or garden center. No prior chemical knowledge is required because the pH value test works on the basis of a color reaction.

Category:

Vegetable garden