Can I save a plant with crown rot?

If the rot is limited, you can cut away the mushy parts and improve drainage. If the entire crown is soft, the plant likely cannot be saved.

Is yellowing always bad?

Not always, as older leaves naturally yellow and die off. Only worry if many leaves yellow at once.

Doronicum: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the soil for waterlogged conditions.
Check the crown for mushy or rotting tissue.
Look for signs of poor drainage in the container.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and the soil stays soggy for days.
What to do: Reduce your watering frequency immediately. Ensure the pot or garden bed has excellent drainage.
Crown rot
Possible
How to tell: The base of the plant looks mushy or discolored and the foliage yellows rapidly.
What to do: Remove the affected plant parts and improve soil drainage. Avoid watering directly into the center of the crown.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your doronicum

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

Yellowing is serious if the base of the plant feels soft or smells bad. A single yellow leaf at the bottom is normal as the plant ages.

Stopping it coming back

Plant in well draining soil and avoid watering the crown directly.

Doronicum: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your doronicum 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

Can I save a plant with crown rot?: If the rot is limited, you can cut away the mushy parts and improve drainage. If the entire crown is soft, the plant likely cannot be saved.
Is yellowing always bad?: Not always, as older leaves naturally yellow and die off. Only worry if many leaves yellow at once.

Guides to these causes

Root Rot

Why are my Leopard's bane leaves turning yellow?