Should I cut off yellow leaves?

Yes, you can remove them once they are fully yellow or shriveled. This keeps the plant looking tidy.

Can low light cause yellowing?

Yes, if the plant does not get enough bright light, it may struggle to maintain its foliage. Move it to a brighter spot.

String of bananas: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is damp.
Check the base of the stems for mushiness.
Inspect the leaves for any signs of pests.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel mushy or soft to the touch and the stems may look translucent. This happens when the roots sit in water for too long.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the soil stays wet for more than a week, repot the plant into a fresh, well draining succulent mix.
Natural Aging
Most likely
How to tell: Only the oldest leaves closest to the soil line turn yellow and eventually shrivel up. This is a normal part of the plant growth cycle.
What to do: Simply pluck off the yellowed leaves once they are completely dry. No other action is needed as long as the rest of the plant looks healthy.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your string of bananas

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

Be concerned if multiple leaves turn yellow at once or if the stems start to rot. A single leaf yellowing occasionally is perfectly normal.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the soil is bone dry before giving your plant a drink. Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling.

String of bananas: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your string of bananas 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 yellow leaves?: Yes, you can remove them once they are fully yellow or shriveled. This keeps the plant looking tidy.
Can low light cause yellowing?: Yes, if the plant does not get enough bright light, it may struggle to maintain its foliage. Move it to a brighter spot.

Why are my string of bananas leaves turning yellow?