Zantedeschia Cantor Yellow Leaves - Causes & Fixes

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Overwatering and Root Rot

Calla Lilies are sensitive to waterlogged soil, which leads to oxygen deprivation in the rhizome. This causes the foliage to turn yellow as the root system begins to decay from fungal pathogens like Pythium.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Gently lift the plant to check if the rhizome or roots feel mushy and smell of decay.

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1 Immediately remove the plant from its current container and inspect the rhizome and roots for mushy, dark, or foul-smelling decay.

2 Prune away all dead or rotting roots using sterilized shears and repot the plant in a well-draining, fresh medium like Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix to restore aeration.

Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix

15.1 L

$22

In Stock

3 Switch to a more breathable substrate by mixing in Legigo Organic Leca Clay Pebbles to improve drainage and prevent future waterlogging.

Legigo 4LB Leca Clay Pebbles

Expanded Clay

$17

In Stock

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Nutrient Deficiency (Nitrogen)

As heavy feeders, 'Cantor' varieties require consistent nitrogen to maintain chlorophyll production. A lack of nitrogen causes older, lower leaves to yellow first before progressing up the plant.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Check if the yellowing is starting on the oldest leaves and consider applying a balanced liquid fertilizer.

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1 Apply a nitrogen-rich liquid fertilizer to boost chlorophyll production and green up the foliage.

FoxFarm Grow Big Liquid Plant Food 1 Quart

0.9 L • 1 pcs

$30

In Stock

2 Monitor the soil moisture levels using a moisture meter to ensure the nitrogen is being effectively absorbed without causing root rot.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

In Stock

3 Prune away the most severely yellowed lower leaves to allow the plant to redirect energy to new growth.

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Improper Light Exposure

While Calla Lilies enjoy bright light, sudden exposure to intense, direct midday sun can scorch tissues, while insufficient light causes the plant to struggle with photosynthesis, leading to chlorosis.

Common

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How to confirm: Observe if the yellowing is accompanied by bleached or crispy patches on the leaf surface.

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1 Relocate your Calla Lily to a spot with bright, indirect sunlight to prevent leaf scorching while ensuring enough energy for photosynthesis.

2 If the plant is in a low-light area, supplement with a full-spectrum grow light to stabilize the photosynthetic process and prevent further yellowing.

SANSI 4-Head 40W LED Grow Light

4 pcs

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3 Monitor the soil moisture levels closely, as improper light often disrupts the plant's water uptake and transpiration rates.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

In Stock

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Temperature Stress (Cold Shock)

Zantedeschia species are tropical/subtropical; exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause the metabolic processes to slow down, resulting in yellowing of the leaf margins.

Common

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How to confirm: Verify if the plant has recently been exposed to a cold draft or a drop in ambient nighttime temperature.

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1 Move your Calla Lily to a warmer, draft-free location within your home, ensuring temperatures remain consistently above 50°F (10°C).

2 Monitor the soil moisture closely to ensure the plant is not being overwatered while its metabolism is slowed by the cold.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

In Stock

3 Once the plant stabilizes in a warm environment, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer to help restore vigor.