Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

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

Is my plant getting too much sun?

If the yellowing is accompanied by bleached spots, it might be getting too much direct light. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Anise-scented fern: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger into the soil to check for dampness.
Check the drainage holes to see if they are blocked.
Look for signs of pests that might be sucking the sap.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves will feel soft or mushy and the soil will stay wet for a long time. You might notice a sour smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 5 centimeters of soil dry out. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so extra water can escape.
Nutrient deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The older leaves turn pale yellow while the veins stay green. This happens if the plant has been in the same soil for a long time.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season. Do not fertilize during the winter months.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your anise-scented fern

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 oldest, lowest leaves to yellow and drop as the plant grows. Worry only if new growth is turning yellow or the whole plant looks pale.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule and only water when the top few centimeters of soil are dry.

Anise-scented fern: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your anise-scented fern 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 cut off the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.
Is my plant getting too much sun?: If the yellowing is accompanied by bleached spots, it might be getting too much direct light. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Why are my Anise-scented fern leaves turning yellow?