Question
I have a Silver Philodendron. The leaves have begun to turn yellow. It's not in any particular area of the plant just sporadically throughout. I have also noticed a few small gnats flying out when i disturb the plant but don't know if this is related to the yellowing of the leaves. I have sprayed with an insecticide that seems to have helped some but not totally eliminated. Thanks.

Answer
Dear Darlene,

Have just answered your query, then pressed a button on my computer and the whole thing disappeared!  Oh the joys of the technical age!

So here goes again!  I wonder if you can send me a photo and/or the botanical name of your plant as I am not familiar with a Silver Philodendron.  It may be that in the States you use a different name to the one we use here so the botanical name would be of great advantage.  The philodendron family is a large one ranging from small pot plants to huge specimen plants which look great in public buildings.

As regards the insects these may be of the type which are attracted to the roots of plants which have been overwatered however, yellowing leaves are usually the sign of underwatering.  I wonder if the insects could be white fly?

I try to avoid insecticides whenever possible - I am not saying you should not have used one - sometimes it is the only thing to do if a plant is badly damaged - but if the infestation is not too bad I prefer to immerse the leaves in tepid water in my kitchen sink {I never use cold water as it is too much of a shock for the plant} and wash off the insects with my fingers.  Then I drain the plant and leave it to dry in a shady place.

Make sure that it is not in contact with other plants whilst there is still doubt over whether the insects have been killed or not.

I look forward to receiving the photo or name or both!  Diana