Should I remove the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.

Can pests cause yellowing?

Yes, aphids often cause yellowing by sucking sap from the leaves. Check the undersides of the leaves for small clusters of insects.

Chili pepper: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny pests.
Look for drainage holes in the bottom of the pot.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow starting from the bottom of the plant and the soil feels constantly soggy.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Nitrogen Deficiency
Most likely
How to tell: Older leaves turn a pale yellow while the plant growth slows down significantly.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks during the growing season. Follow the label instructions to avoid burning the roots.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your chili pepper

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 very lowest, oldest leaves to yellow and drop as the plant matures. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly to the upper foliage.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and feed the plant regularly with a high quality vegetable fertilizer.

Chili pepper: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your chili pepper 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 remove the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.
Can pests cause yellowing?: Yes, aphids often cause yellowing by sucking sap from the leaves. Check the undersides of the leaves for small clusters of insects.

Why are my chili pepper leaves turning yellow?