Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. They will not turn green again and removing them helps the plant focus energy on new growth.

Can low light cause yellowing?

Yes, if the plant is in a very dark corner, it may shed older leaves. Move it to a spot with bright indirect light.

Creeping Fig: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top inch of soil to check for dampness.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Look at the undersides of leaves for tiny pests.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft or mushy and the soil stays wet for a long time. You might notice a musty smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and never let the plant sit in a saucer of standing water.
Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel crispy or dry before they turn yellow and fall off. The soil will pull away from the edges of the pot.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough soak until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a schedule where you water every 5 to 10 days when the top inch of soil is dry.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your creeping fig

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 leaves at the base of the stems to yellow and drop occasionally. Be concerned if multiple leaves turn yellow rapidly across the whole plant.

Stopping it coming back

Keep a consistent watering routine and always check the soil moisture before adding more water.

Creeping Fig: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your creeping fig 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. They will not turn green again and removing them helps the plant focus energy on new growth.
Can low light cause yellowing?: Yes, if the plant is in a very dark corner, it may shed older leaves. Move it to a spot with bright indirect light.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my creeping fig's leaves turning yellow?