Should I fertilize a plant with yellow leaves?

No, do not fertilize a stressed plant. Wait until it shows signs of new, healthy growth before adding any nutrients.

Does this plant need a lot of water?

It prefers to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering is the fastest way to cause problems for this species.

Rough hawkbit: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil one inch deep to see if it is soggy.
Check the drainage holes to ensure they are not clogged.
Inspect the base of the plant for any signs of rot.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. The soil may smell slightly sour or stay damp for more than 14 days.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top inch of soil dry out completely. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape after you water.
Natural aging
Possible
How to tell: This is less common for this plant, but it usually happens when the oldest leaves at the base of the plant die off as part of its life cycle. The yellowing is slow and affects only the bottom leaves.
What to do: Simply trim off the yellow leaf with clean scissors. No other action is needed as this is a normal part of the plant growing.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your rough hawkbit

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

If the yellowing spreads rapidly to the upper leaves, you likely have a root issue that needs attention. A single yellowing leaf at the base is usually just normal aging.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil is dry, which typically happens every 7 to 14 days.

Rough hawkbit: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your rough hawkbit 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 fertilize a plant with yellow leaves?: No, do not fertilize a stressed plant. Wait until it shows signs of new, healthy growth before adding any nutrients.
Does this plant need a lot of water?: It prefers to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering is the fastest way to cause problems for this species.

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