Will yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not recover its green color. It is best to let the plant shed these leaves as new growth appears.

Can overwatering cause yellow leaves?

Yes, soggy soil prevents roots from breathing and causes yellowing. Always ensure the top inch of soil is dry before you water again.

Why are my boxwood leaves turning yellow? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny moving specks.
Check the soil moisture to ensure it is not too soggy or bone dry.
Look for webbing between the stems.

Likely causes

Spider Mites
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny yellow stippling on the leaves and perhaps fine webbing between branches. These pests thrive in hot, dry weather.
What to do: Spray the foliage thoroughly with a strong stream of water to knock the mites off. If the infestation is heavy, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 7 to 10 days until they are gone.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn a pale, sickly yellow while the veins may remain green. This often happens if the soil pH is too high or nutrients are depleted.
What to do: Test your soil pH and aim for a range of 6.5 to 7.0. Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring to give the plant a boost.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common box

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

Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly across the whole shrub. It is normal to see some interior yellowing in late summer as old leaves naturally shed.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your boxwood well watered during dry spells and maintain good airflow around the plant to discourage pests.

Common box: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common box 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.

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Questions people ask

Will yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not recover its green color. It is best to let the plant shed these leaves as new growth appears.
Can overwatering cause yellow leaves?: Yes, soggy soil prevents roots from breathing and causes yellowing. Always ensure the top inch of soil is dry before you water again.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why are my boxwood leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your common box?