PlantPal

Why are leaves turning yellow?

One aging leaf can be normal. Several yellowing leaves call for a closer look.

A yellowing leaf on a potted rubber plant; yellowing can have many causes.
A yellowing leaf on a potted rubber plant; yellowing can have many causes. Photo: Famartin · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Resized and converted for display.

What to check first

Is it one of the oldest leaves at the bottom, with healthy growth above? If several leaves are changing, feel the mix below the surface and check the undersides for insects or fine webbing.

What to do now

If the mix is still wet, empty the saucer and wait before watering again. If it is dry and the plant is due for water, water thoroughly and let the pot drain. Hold off on fertilizer while you check the cause.

What to watch next

Take a photo today and compare over the next week. If newer leaves also turn yellow or the plant wilts in wet mix, check the roots and drainage.

Sources