Should I cut off yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors once they are fully yellow or brown. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.

Can a yellow leaf turn green again?

No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not revert to green. Focus on correcting the care to ensure new growth comes in healthy.

Why are my Gasteria leaves turning yellow? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is damp.
Check the base of the leaves for mushiness.
Inspect the plant location for direct afternoon sun.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft, mushy, or translucent rather than firm. You might notice the yellowing starting at the base of the plant.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the soil stays wet for more than a few days, repot the plant into a fresh, well draining cactus mix. Ensure your pot has drainage holes.
Sunburn
Possible
How to tell: The yellowing appears as bleached or pale patches on the sides of the leaves facing the light source. This happens if the plant is moved too quickly into harsh, direct afternoon sun.
What to do: Move your Gasteria to a spot with bright, indirect light. If you want to increase its light exposure, do it gradually over 2 to 3 weeks. Trim off any severely damaged leaves if they become unsightly.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your gasteria

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 or the leaves start to rot. It is normal for the oldest, lowest leaf to occasionally yellow and wither as the plant grows.

Stopping it coming back

Only water your Gasteria when the soil is completely dry, which typically takes 14 to 28 days. Keep the plant in bright, filtered light rather than intense direct sun.

Gasteria: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your gasteria 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 snip them off with clean scissors once they are fully yellow or brown. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.
Can a yellow leaf turn green again?: No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not revert to green. Focus on correcting the care to ensure new growth comes in healthy.

Why are my Gasteria leaves turning yellow?