Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off with clean shears. This keeps the plant looking tidy and prevents potential fungal issues.

Is yellowing always bad?

Not always, as older leaves naturally die off. If the new growth looks healthy, your plant is likely doing just fine.

Deadly nightshade: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is soggy or waterlogged.
Look for yellowing on the oldest leaves versus the new growth.
Inspect the leaves for signs of pests or spots.

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: Allow the soil to dry out until the top inch is dry before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Nutrient deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green, often starting on older growth. This happens when the plant lacks essential minerals.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season. Do not overfeed, as this can burn the roots.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your deadly nightshade

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 leaves to yellow and drop as the plant grows. If the yellowing is spreading rapidly across the whole plant, you need to intervene.

Stopping it coming back

Use well-draining soil and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. Provide consistent, bright-indirect light to keep the plant healthy.

Deadly nightshade: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your deadly nightshade 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 trim them off with clean shears. This keeps the plant looking tidy and prevents potential fungal issues.
Is yellowing always bad?: Not always, as older leaves naturally die off. If the new growth looks healthy, your plant is likely doing just fine.

Why are my deadly nightshade leaves turning yellow?