Why Your Beans Have Yellow Leaves
Bean leaves turn yellow from nitrogen deficiency, overwatering, or bean mosaic virus. Check soil moisture first.
The 3 Causes
Cause 1: Nitrogen Deficiency
Signs: Older leaves yellow first. Plant stunted. Fix: Beans fix their own nitrogen. If soil is poor, add compost.
Cause 2: Overwatering
Signs: Yellow leaves + wet soil. Wilting. Fix: Let soil dry. Improve drainage.
Cause 3: Bean Mosaic Virus
Signs: Yellow mottling. Curled leaves. Plant stunted. Fix: No cure. Remove plant.
How to Tell Them Apart
| Sign | Cause |
|---|---|
| Older leaves yellow, stunted | Nitrogen deficiency |
| Wet soil, wilting | Overwatering |
| Mottled, curled leaves | Mosaic virus |
What to Do
- Check soil. Wet → let dry.
- Check leaves. Mottled → virus.
- Add compost if soil is poor.
- Remove virus-infected plants.
Common Questions
Do beans need fertilizer? Not usually. They fix nitrogen.
Can I overwater beans? Yes. They rot in wet soil.
Is mosaic virus fatal? Yes. Remove the plant.
Will yellow leaves turn green? Usually no.
Should I remove yellow leaves? Only if fully dead.
How do I prevent virus? Control aphids.