Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to help the plant look better and focus its energy on healthy growth.

Does yellowing mean I need to fertilize?

Not necessarily. Over-fertilizing can actually burn the roots and cause yellowing, so only feed during the active growing season.

Wax Begonia: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top inch of soil to check for moisture.
Inspect the base of the stems for mushy spots.
Assess how much light the plant receives daily.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft or mushy and the soil stays wet for a long time.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before you water again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so extra water can escape.
Low Light
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks stretched out and the leaves lose their vibrant color before turning yellow.
What to do: Move your begonia to a spot with bright, indirect light. If you keep it indoors, a south or east facing window is usually best.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your wax begonia

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. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly to newer growth or if the stems feel soft.

Stopping it coming back

Water only when the top inch of soil is dry and keep the plant in a bright location with good airflow.

Wax Begonia: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wax begonia 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 to help the plant look better and focus its energy on healthy growth.
Does yellowing mean I need to fertilize?: Not necessarily. Over-fertilizing can actually burn the roots and cause yellowing, so only feed during the active growing season.

Why are my wax begonia's leaves turning yellow?