Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim away any completely yellow or brown blades to keep the plant looking tidy. Use sharp, clean shears to make a clean cut near the base.

Does yellowing mean my grass is dying?

Not necessarily, as it is often just a reaction to too much water. If the roots are still firm and white, the plant will likely recover once the soil dries out.

Purple pampas grass: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil moisture at a depth of 3 inches.
Inspect the base of the plant for signs of standing water.
Check if the soil is heavy clay that holds too much moisture.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The foliage looks limp and the soil feels constantly soggy or muddy to the touch.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 3 to 4 inches of soil dry out completely. Ensure the planting site has excellent drainage and is not sitting in a low spot where water pools.
Nutrient deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The older leaves turn pale yellow while the plant growth appears stunted or slow.
What to do: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. Avoid over fertilizing, as this grass prefers leaner soil conditions.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your purple pampas grass

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 entire clump. It is normal for a few older, lower blades to yellow and die back as the plant matures.

Stopping it coming back

Plant your grass in well draining soil and only water deeply every 7 to 14 days during dry spells.

Purple pampas grass: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your purple pampas grass 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 trim away any completely yellow or brown blades to keep the plant looking tidy. Use sharp, clean shears to make a clean cut near the base.
Does yellowing mean my grass is dying?: Not necessarily, as it is often just a reaction to too much water. If the roots are still firm and white, the plant will likely recover once the soil dries out.

Why are my purple pampas grass leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your purple pampas grass?

Likely causes

Overwatering

Nutrient deficiency

Find out what's wrong with your purple pampas grass

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

Purple pampas grass: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

More problems with Purple pampas grass