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Pale Leaves in Tradescantia

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

Also called Inch Plant or Wandering Dude, Tradescantia is a fast-growing trailing plant with gorgeous purple and silver-striped leaves

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Tradescantia care requirements

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

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Light
Bright indirect light for best colour.
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Fertiliser
Monthly in growing season.
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Water
Every 1–2 weeks; allow top inch to dry.
symptoms

Symptoms to look for in Tradescantia

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

  • 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 Tradescantia

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

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How to treat pale leaves in Tradescantia

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

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Preventing pale leaves in Tradescantia

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

Other Tradescantia problems

Pale Leaves in Tradescantia — Causes & Treatment | GreenScout