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 healthy growth.

Can low light cause yellow leaves?

Yes, if the plant is in a very dark corner, it may shed leaves that it cannot support. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Wax vine: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the top inch of soil for moisture.
Check the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Inspect the base of the stems for signs of decay.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft or mushy, and the soil remains wet for more than a few days after watering.
What to do: Stop watering until the top inch of soil is completely dry. If the soil is soggy, repot the plant into fresh, well draining cactus mix and trim away any black or mushy roots.
Root rot
Most likely
How to tell: The yellowing starts on the lower leaves and spreads upward, often accompanied by a sour smell from the pot.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Cut off any dark, slimy roots with sterilized scissors and repot into a clean container with fresh, airy soil.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your wax vine

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 vine to yellow and drop occasionally. Be concerned if multiple leaves turn yellow at once or if the stems look shriveled.

Stopping it coming back

Always allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Use a pot with plenty of drainage holes to keep the roots happy.

Wax vine: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wax vine 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 healthy growth.
Can low light cause yellow leaves?: Yes, if the plant is in a very dark corner, it may shed leaves that it cannot support. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Guides to these causes

Root Rot

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