Is my plant dying if it has yellow leaves?

Not necessarily, but it is telling you that its roots are unhappy. Adjusting your watering routine usually fixes the problem quickly.

How often should I water my Chinese privet?

Every 5 to 10 days is typical, but always check the top inch of soil first. If it is still damp, wait another day or two.

Chinese privet: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger one inch into the soil to check moisture.
Check if the pot has proper drainage holes.
Look for signs of standing water in the tray.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and may feel soft or mushy. The soil stays wet for more than 10 days.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and is not sitting in a saucer of standing water.
Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow, look crispy, and drop off easily. The soil feels bone dry to the touch.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a schedule of checking the soil every 5 to 7 days.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your chinese privet

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 near the bottom to yellow and drop as the plant grows. If you see yellowing on new growth or across the whole plant, it needs attention.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule based on soil feel rather than a calendar. Always ensure the soil has time to dry slightly between waterings.

Chinese privet: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your chinese privet 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

Is my plant dying if it has yellow leaves?: Not necessarily, but it is telling you that its roots are unhappy. Adjusting your watering routine usually fixes the problem quickly.
How often should I water my Chinese privet?: Every 5 to 10 days is typical, but always check the top inch of soil first. If it is still damp, wait another day or two.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Chinese privet leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your chinese privet?