Can I use regular houseplant fertilizer?

No, regular fertilizer can be toxic to aquatic life and may cause algae blooms. Always use a fertilizer specifically labeled for aquatic plants.

Will yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf turns yellow, it will not turn green again. It is best to remove it so the plant can focus energy on new growth.

Floating sweet-grass: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the plant is getting enough bright light.
Observe if the yellowing is on old or new leaves.
Consider when you last added fertilizer.

Likely causes

Nutrient deficiency
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn a pale yellow color, starting from the older growth. This happens when the plant has exhausted the nutrients in its water or soil.
What to do: Add a small amount of aquatic plant fertilizer to the water once a month during the growing season. Follow the package instructions carefully to avoid overfeeding.
Insufficient light
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks stretched out and the leaves are turning yellow or pale green. This happens when the plant is kept in a dark corner.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light. It needs full sun to partial shade to maintain its vibrant color.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your floating sweet-grass

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

A single yellow leaf at the base is normal as the plant grows. Worry if the yellowing is widespread or if the plant stops growing entirely.

Stopping it coming back

Provide consistent bright light and use a balanced aquatic fertilizer during the spring and summer months.

Floating sweet-grass: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your floating sweet-grass 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 use regular houseplant fertilizer?: No, regular fertilizer can be toxic to aquatic life and may cause algae blooms. Always use a fertilizer specifically labeled for aquatic plants.
Will yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf turns yellow, it will not turn green again. It is best to remove it so the plant can focus energy on new growth.

Why are my floating sweet-grass leaves turning yellow?