Ask Anna – April 2025 Questions

Happy April, everyone! As we embrace this lovely month, I’m excited to dive into a question that many of you have been curious about: “Why does my Tropical Hibiscus Have Yellow Leaves and Sticky Residue on it? ”

Now, let’s take a moment to address a common issue that can affect our beloved tropical hibiscus plants: yellow leaves accompanied by a sticky residue. If you’ve noticed your hibiscus struggling with these symptoms, don’t worry! There are several potential causes, and identifying the right one can help you restore your plant’s health.

One of the main culprits behind yellowing leaves and a syrup-like liquid on your hibiscus could be a pest infestation. Insects like aphids, scale, or whiteflies are notorious for sucking the sap from your plants and leaving behind a sticky substance called honeydew. This can weaken your hibiscus, leading to its yellowing and stunted growth. Keep an eye out for tiny bugs or brown bumps on the stems and leaves. You may also notice a sticky residue on the plant or nearby surfaces, and the leaves might be turning yellow or curling.

To combat these pests, consider spraying your hibiscus with insecticidal soap or neem oil every few days. If your plant is outdoors, introducing ladybugs can be a natural and effective way to manage these pesky intruders. Additionally, using a strong spray of water can help knock off any insects clinging to your hibiscus.

Another possible reason for those yellowing leaves could be related to watering practices or sudden changes in lighting. Both overwatering and underwatering can stress your plant, leading to undesirable symptoms. If your hibiscus is overwatered, the soil will remain wet, causing the leaves to turn yellow and feel soft. On the other hand, if it’s underwatered, the soil might be dry, resulting in wilted or crispy leaves. You should also be cautious when moving your hibiscus from outdoors to indoors, as sudden changes in light can shock it, leading to leaf drop.

To keep your hibiscus healthy, check the soil regularly. It should feel moist but not soggy. Water your plant only when the top inch of soil is dry. Ensuring your hibiscus has a steady environment with consistent light will also help it thrive. By keeping an eye on these aspects, you’ll be well on your way to nurturing a healthy tropical hibiscus. Happy gardening!

If you find yourself with gardening questions or need advice, feel free to reach out! You can send your questions to me at [email protected] with the subject line “Ask Anna,” and I’ll happily answer your questions in next month’s Seeker NewsMagazine.

Stop by Harvest at 2405 Vincent Massey Drive and also at 75 Cornwall Centre Road to pick up your copy of The Seeker each month.