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Pale Leaves in Corn Plant

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

The Corn Plant is a popular tropical houseplant with long, arching green leaves that have yellow or cream-colored stripes, resembling corn husks

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Corn Plant care requirements

These care conditions are most relevant to pale leaves in Corn Plant. Check each one as a potential cause.

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Light
Bright, indirect light is optimal. Tolerates low light but growth slows significantly. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves.
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Fertiliser
Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer. Reduce feeding in fall and winter.
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Water
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Reduce watering in winter. Use distilled or filtered water if possible, as the plant is sensitive to fluoride and chlorine.
symptoms

Symptoms to look for in Corn Plant

  • fiber_manual_recordWashed-out, pale colour
  • fiber_manual_recordYellowing between veins
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Common causes in Corn Plant

  • fiber_manual_recordIron deficiency
  • fiber_manual_recordMagnesium deficiency
  • fiber_manual_recordToo much direct sun
  • fiber_manual_recordAlkaline soil
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How to diagnose pale leaves in Corn Plant

Interveinal yellowing on new growth = iron deficiency. On old growth = magnesium deficiency.

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How to treat pale leaves in Corn Plant

Apply chelated iron or Epsom salt as appropriate. Adjust soil pH.

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Preventing pale leaves in Corn Plant

Use ericaceous compost for acid-loving plants. Feed with micronutrient fertiliser.

Other Corn Plant problems