How often should I water my Cast Iron Plant?

Water only when the top half of the soil is dry. This usually means every 2 to 3 weeks depending on your home temperature.

Does low light cause yellow leaves?

Low light usually causes slow growth rather than yellowing. If your plant is yellowing in low light, you are likely watering it too often.

Cast iron plant: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger into the soil to check for dampness.
Lift the pot to see if it feels heavy with water.
Inspect the base of the stems for signs of rot.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and feel soft or limp. The soil stays wet for a long time after watering.
What to do: Let the top 2 to 3 inches of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Natural Aging
Possible
How to tell: Only the oldest, lowest leaves turn yellow while the rest of the plant looks healthy. This is a normal part of the plant life cycle.
What to do: Simply prune the yellow leaf at the base of the stem. No further action is needed if the rest of the plant is thriving.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your cast iron plant

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

If multiple leaves yellow at once or the stems feel mushy, you likely have a root issue that needs immediate attention.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the soil dryness before adding more water, and never let the plant sit in a saucer of standing water.

Cast iron plant: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your cast iron plant 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

How often should I water my Cast Iron Plant?: Water only when the top half of the soil is dry. This usually means every 2 to 3 weeks depending on your home temperature.
Does low light cause yellow leaves?: Low light usually causes slow growth rather than yellowing. If your plant is yellowing in low light, you are likely watering it too often.

Why are my Cast Iron Plant leaves turning yellow?