Can I fix yellow leaves with more water?

Only if the soil is completely dry. If the soil is already wet, adding more water will only make the yellowing worse by suffocating the roots.

Will yellow leaves turn green again?

Usually, no. Once a leaf has turned yellow due to stress or deficiency, it will likely drop off, but fixing the cause will ensure the new leaves grow in green and healthy.

Japanese Camellia: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is waterlogged or bone dry.
Check the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Look at the leaf veins to see if they are still green.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn a dull yellow, starting from the bottom of the plant, and the soil feels constantly soggy. The roots may begin to smell sour or rot.
What to do: Let the top few inches of soil dry out before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and never let the plant sit in a saucer of standing water.
Iron deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow while the veins remain a bright, healthy green. This is common in soils that are not acidic enough for camellias.
What to do: Test your soil pH and aim for a range of 5.5 to 6.5. Apply an acidifying fertilizer or iron chelate supplement to help the plant absorb nutrients better.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your japanese camellia

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 older leaves near the center of the plant to turn yellow and drop as the plant ages. Be concerned if the yellowing is widespread or affects new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistently moist, well draining, acidic soil. Avoid over fertilizing, which can cause salt buildup and leaf damage.

Japanese Camellia: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your japanese camellia 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

Can I fix yellow leaves with more water?: Only if the soil is completely dry. If the soil is already wet, adding more water will only make the yellowing worse by suffocating the roots.
Will yellow leaves turn green again?: Usually, no. Once a leaf has turned yellow due to stress or deficiency, it will likely drop off, but fixing the cause will ensure the new leaves grow in green and healthy.

Guides to these causes

Chlorosis

Why are my Common camellia leaves turning yellow?