Should I remove yellow leaves?

Yes, you can gently pull them off if they are already loose. This helps the plant focus energy on healthy growth.

Can lack of sun cause yellowing?

Yes, citrus trees need full sun. If they are in too much shade, they will struggle to produce chlorophyll and turn pale.

Citrus: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Inspect the undersides of leaves for pests.
Examine the soil drainage.

Likely causes

Nitrogen deficiency
Most likely
How to tell: Older leaves turn uniformly pale yellow, veins included. New growth may also look stunted.
What to do: Apply a balanced citrus fertilizer according to the package instructions. Ensure the fertilizer contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves turn yellow and may feel soft or mushy. The soil stays wet for more than a week.
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.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your citrus

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 old leaves to yellow and drop occasionally. Be concerned if the yellowing spreads rapidly across the entire canopy.

Stopping it coming back

Feed your tree regularly during the growing season and avoid letting it sit in standing water.

Citrus: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your citrus 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 yellow leaves?: Yes, you can gently pull them off if they are already loose. This helps the plant focus energy on healthy growth.
Can lack of sun cause yellowing?: Yes, citrus trees need full sun. If they are in too much shade, they will struggle to produce chlorophyll and turn pale.

Why are my citrus tree's leaves turning yellow?