Will the yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf has turned yellow due to stress or deficiency, it will not recover its green color. It is best to let the plant shed these leaves naturally.

Can overwatering cause yellow leaves?

Yes, overwatering is a very common cause of yellowing. It suffocates the roots and prevents nutrient uptake.

Littleleaf boxwood: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is waterlogged.
Check the base of the plant for signs of mulch buildup.
Look at the color of the new growth versus the old growth.

Likely causes

Nitrogen deficiency
Most likely
How to tell: The older leaves turn a pale yellow while the plant shows stunted growth. This happens when the soil lacks enough nutrients to support the foliage.
What to do: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer formulated for shrubs in early spring. Follow the package instructions for the specific size of your plant.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and the soil feels constantly soggy or muddy. This prevents the roots from getting the oxygen they need.
What to do: Improve the soil drainage by adding organic matter like compost to the surrounding area. If the plant is in a container, ensure it has drainage holes and stop watering until the top 2 inches of soil are dry.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your littleleaf boxwood

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 a few inner leaves to yellow and drop in the fall. You should worry if the yellowing is widespread across the entire plant.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistent soil moisture and apply a light layer of fertilizer once a year in spring.

Littleleaf boxwood: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your littleleaf boxwood 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

Will the yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf has turned yellow due to stress or deficiency, it will not recover its green color. It is best to let the plant shed these leaves naturally.
Can overwatering cause yellow leaves?: Yes, overwatering is a very common cause of yellowing. It suffocates the roots and prevents nutrient uptake.

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