A young fatsia that’s in a large pot of multipurpose compost. Only some of the lower leaves are getting a distinct pale yellowing between the veins. Sits in full sun at the mo. The growing tip leaf is blackened but I suspect that’s just frost (in Scotland). Thinking the yellowing might be magnesium deficiency (or an indirect deficiency caused by overly rich compost locking out magnesium to the plant)? Don’t think it’s overwatered, all other growth is healthy and not soft, no other chlorosis on leaves. Anyone got any thoughts? Also advice to remedy this?
I would tend to agree with a Magnesium deficiency. This can happen when the soil is too acidic, or with plants that tend to consume it quickly. I suspect the former.
Try testing the pH of your soil, and add DOLOMITIC LIME. Just a modest, single handful will suffice. It will provide, both, Magnesium and Calcium, which get used by the plant in tandem. Just try not to let the pH spike up over 7, which will rarely happen.
This article will offer more information on the care of the plant: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/aralia-plants/japanese-aralia-care.htm
Thanks for that. Will follow your advice.
The leaves are healthy. There are no signs of anything that could indicate what is wrong with the plant.
I'm not sure if you have it inside or outside, but houseplants can be sensitive to being moved to a different location inside, which affects light. They are susceptible to the common household pests but you say you don't see anything. Another concern might be root rot. Make sure you are not overwatering.
It is my understanding that these plants regularly drop leaves in order to produce new growth. Unless you're finding disease on the plant, just make sure any dead leaves and debris are cleaned away.
Here's an article for you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/aralia-plants/japanese-aralia-care.htm
Also it's looking a bit raggy -should I prune it?
It should have a main stem. Before it blooms it puts up a whitish flower stalk that looks like a separate plant.
Yes, it should be pruned. Here are instructions:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/aralia-plants/japanese-aralia-care.htm
https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/fatsia-japonica
How to save a mature fatsia japonica in a clay pot outside. Root has grown through concrete path. Thanks!
Likely, you will end up cutting the root. With this, there is a chance of infection. Proper care after transplanting will help reduce this risk.
These articles will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/hpgen/repotting-a-large-plant.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/aralia-plants/japanese-aralia-care.htm
I have had this plant in a pot for 2 years. I have planted it in the garden now. It is just straight up and down and not bushing out. There is new growth at the bottom and 1 bit branching off from the trunk. It is 4 feet high. The leaves in the middle are hanging and yellow.Thanks
It looks like a Japanese aralia (Aralia japonica or Fatsia japonica). There is likely some transplant shock going on. It also looks like it is in sun and they need medium to full shade. Also they need a slightly acidic soil which may be different in the ground compared to what was in the container. It also needs pruning to get bushy. Here are some growing tips to compare with yours:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/aralia-plants/japanese-aralia-care.htm
I have seen conflicting information. some say remove leaves and others say to do nothing. What is the best thing to do please?
I suggest removing the discolored leaves. The likely culprit is mealybugs. It gives off honeydew which promotes sooty mold, the black on the leaves. When you get rid of the bugs, the mold will wipe off.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/mealybugs-control.htm
Something attacking plants which is spreading along the borders. We thought it was a sooty mould which appeared first on Fatsia Japonica. Sprayed with dilute washing up liquid as advised but no positive result. Has spread to other plants, Oleander, Euphorbia and roses. Please can you identify and advise possible treatment? Many thanks!
I would concentrate of the causal agent. Aphids, mealybugs, leafhoppers, thrips and scale insects drink plant sap and excrete the sticky liquid called honeydew, which may attract ants. Then fungi grows on the honeydew, which creates the black sooty mold. So, research what insect is causing the problem (take samples in sealed plastic bags to a nearby plant nursery) and apply appropriate counter measures. Note: the insects may have already left.