Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off with clean shears to keep the plant looking tidy and to help it focus energy on new growth.

Can yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not recover its green color. It is best to remove it.

Geranium: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the top inch of soil for moisture.
Check the drainage holes for blockages.
Inspect the base of the stems for signs of decay.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. The soil remains damp for more than a few days after watering.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and empty the saucer after 15 minutes.
Root Rot
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks wilted despite moist soil and the roots appear brown or slimy instead of firm and white. The base of the stems may also turn black.
What to do: Gently remove the plant from its pot to inspect the roots. Trim away any mushy, dark roots with clean scissors and repot into fresh, well draining potting mix.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your geranium

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 a few older leaves at the base to turn yellow as the plant grows, but widespread yellowing across the plant is a sign of distress.

Stopping it coming back

Always allow the top inch of soil to dry out before adding more water, and never let the plant sit in standing water.

Geranium: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your geranium 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 them off with clean shears to keep the plant looking tidy and to help it focus energy on new growth.
Can yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not recover its green color. It is best to remove it.

Guides to these causes

Root Rot

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