Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.

Is yellowing a sign of too much sun?

Usually no, as this plant loves full sun. If the leaves are bleached and yellow, it might be sunscald, but that is rare for this species.

Spiny amaranth: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is waterlogged.
Check the drainage holes for blockages.
Look for signs of pests on the yellowing leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and may feel soft or mushy. The soil stays wet for a long time after watering.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. Ensure the pot has excellent drainage and never let it sit in a saucer of water.
Nutrient deficiency
Possible
How to tell: Older leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green. This often happens if the plant has been in the same soil for a long time.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do this once every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your spiny amaranth

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 very bottom, oldest leaves to yellow and drop as the plant grows. Worry if the yellowing is spreading rapidly to the upper, newer leaves.

Stopping it coming back

Avoid overwatering by checking the soil moisture before every watering. Use well draining soil to prevent the roots from suffocating.

Spiny amaranth: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your spiny amaranth 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 the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.
Is yellowing a sign of too much sun?: Usually no, as this plant loves full sun. If the leaves are bleached and yellow, it might be sunscald, but that is rare for this species.

Why are my spiny amaranth leaves turning yellow?