Cucumber yellow leaves are one of the quickest-growing crops. This makes them popular with gardeners, but sometimes they can get too gung-ho and start yellowing leaves prematurely. This can indicate a number of things, including insufficient sunlight or warmth, improper watering, iron deficiency, fungal diseases, and pests. Fortunately, cucumbers are fairly easy to grow and treat.
The most common cause of cucumber yellow leaves is lack of enough sunlight. Cucumbers are a sun-loving plant that needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If they are not getting this much sunlight, it can lead to stunted growth and minimal-to-no flowers or fruit.
Yellowing Cucumber Leaves: Unearthing the Causes and Cures
Overwatering can also contribute to yellow cucumber leaves. Cucumbers are a deep-rooted plant and like to have moist soil, but too much water can drown the roots and prevent them from breathing properly. Water the soil on a regular schedule and make sure to check it often to see how much water it holds. If it seems too dry, water it until the topsoil is moist to the touch.
A lack of magnesium can also cause cucumber plants to turn yellow. This is a problem that is easily remedied by spraying the foliage with a solution of 2 tablespoons of Epsom Salt per gallon of water. This will quickly absorb into the leaf and correct the yellowing. A lack of iron can also be corrected by spraying the foliage with liquid iron or sprinkling granular iron on the soil around the plants. Cucumber mosaic virus can also cause yellowing leaves on the cucumber plant, as well as distorted and misshapen fruit. This virus is transmitted by insects, such as aphids and potato leafhoppers, and can also be spread through certain weeds.