Succulent Leaves Are Turning Yellow & Fuzzy

A Different Normal

• Unlike most plants, succulents easily adapt to drought by storing water in their leaves, roots or stems. They originated in areas with extreme climates, so they are masters of adaptation. Turning color, with yellowing or fuzzy leaves can be a normal response to the plant’s environment, meaning it is not sick or stressed. Some succulents change color or create a covering to protect their leaves against bright light. Sometimes leaves become fuzzy to retain dew to absorb more moisture. The fuzzy look can be one of the plants more attractive features.

Watering

• Any plant can show signs of stress -- including yellow leaves -- when it gets too much water. Pay attention to how your succulent responds to water, while keeping in mind that most varieties have a dormant period in which they need less water. This period is usually late fall through early spring when days shorten and weather cools. To avoid overwatering during this resting period, allow the soil to dry before each watering.

Lighting

• Take a close look at the “yellow” cast on your succulent. If it appears bleached or slightly orange, it may be getting shocked by bright light. This symptom appears on some varieties as pale brown or even patchy dark spots. Remove damaged leaves that spoil the plant’s appearance and move it to a shadier spot that still gets sufficient light. Too much light, and sometimes humidity or a fungus, can cause cactus corky scab, which produces rough, tan areas on the plant. A shadier, drier spot likely will help this, too.

Pests and Diseases

• Succulents survive in harsh conditions, but they can fall prey to diseases and pests that cause a change in color and texture. Aloe plants, for example, can become infected by aloe mites, which make the leaves look bumpy and yellow or orange. Cut out damaged tissue, and move the infected plant away from others. Disinfect the tools you used to avoid spreading the contamination. Succulents also can become affected by scale insects, which cause a bumpy, brown discoloration. Isolate the infected plants, and spray them rubbing alcohol that has been diluted with water, scraping away the scale with a plastic utensil. Then wash the succulent with a gentle liquid detergent before repotting.