Should I remove the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and allows it to focus energy on healthy growth.

Does yellowing mean I have aphids?

Aphids usually cause distorted or curled leaves rather than just yellowing. Check the new growth closely for small, clustered insects.

Slender amaranth: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil one inch below the surface.
Check the drainage holes for blockages.
Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny pests.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy. The soil stays damp for more than 4 days.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: This is less common for this plant, but usually happens when the soil is depleted of nitrogen. The older leaves turn pale yellow while the veins remain green.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the label to avoid burning the roots.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your slender 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 matures. Worry if the yellowing is spreading rapidly to the younger leaves at the top.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule and use well draining potting mix to keep the roots healthy.

Slender amaranth: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your slender 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 remove the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and allows it to focus energy on healthy growth.
Does yellowing mean I have aphids?: Aphids usually cause distorted or curled leaves rather than just yellowing. Check the new growth closely for small, clustered insects.

Why are my slender amaranth leaves turning yellow?