Should I cut off yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. This helps the plant focus energy on new growth.

Does low light cause yellowing?

Yes, if your galangal is in a dark corner, it may drop older leaves to conserve energy. Move it to a brighter spot with indirect light.

Why are my galangal leaves turning yellow? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to check for dampness.
Inspect the pot for proper drainage.
Look for signs of pests on the underside of leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow starting from the bottom of the plant and the soil feels constantly soggy.
What to do: Let the top 2 inches of soil dry out before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so extra water can escape.
Nutrient deficiency
Possible
How to tell: General yellowing across older leaves while the plant looks otherwise healthy.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your galangal

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is normal for the oldest bottom leaf to yellow and die as the plant grows. Worry if multiple leaves yellow at once or if the stem feels soft.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep the soil damp but never waterlogged.

Galangal: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your galangal and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I cut off yellow leaves?: Yes, you can trim them off with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. This helps the plant focus energy on new growth.
Does low light cause yellowing?: Yes, if your galangal is in a dark corner, it may drop older leaves to conserve energy. Move it to a brighter spot with indirect light.

Why are my galangal leaves turning yellow?