Why are my plant's leaves turning yellow?

Your plant is trying to tell you something. Most of the time you can work it out in two minutes, without reaching for the fertilizer.

Line Andorsen · 2 min read

Pothos in a gray pot with a few yellow leaves — Illustrative image made with AI

See where the yellow is

Peace lily with yellow lower leaves in wet soil, with water in the saucer — Lower leaves, wet soilToo much waterThe roots aren't getting enough air. Empty the saucer, check that the pot has drainage holes, and wait to water until the soil is drier.Illustrative image made with AI

New leaves that are yellow between green veins — New leaves, green veinsIron deficiencyMost common in plants that like acidic soil. An iron feed helps in the short term. In the long term, move the plant into lime-free potting mix.Illustrative image made with AI

Pale, stretched pothos reaching toward the window — Pale, long, and thinNot enough lightThe plant is stretching toward the window. Move it somewhere brighter a little at a time, since sudden sun can scorch the leaves.Illustrative image made with AI

Three things that look similar but aren't

Yellow lower leaves and dry soil: The plant hasn't had enough water. Stand the pot in water for about an hour so the whole root ball gets wet.

Pale leaves and little growth, after years in the same pot: The plant may be short on nutrients. Switch to fresh potting mix and use a liquid feed during the growing season.

The odd old leaf: Completely normal. Leaves get old too. Pick it off and leave the plant in peace.

How to find the answer in two minutes

Stick a finger in the soilIs it wet, dry, or just right?
See which leaves are yellowOld ones at the bottom, new ones at the top, or the whole plant?
Look at where the plant livesIs it getting enough light? Hold off on fertilizer until you've ruled out water.