Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off to keep the plant looking tidy.

Is yellowing always a sign of disease?

No, it is usually a sign of environmental stress like improper watering.

Fine leaved flax: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is soggy or waterlogged.
Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Inspect the roots for any mushy or dark areas.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and the soil stays soggy.
What to do: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Ensure your pot has drainage holes.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: Older leaves turn yellow while the plant looks otherwise healthy.
What to do: Apply a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer once in the spring. Do not overdo it.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your fine leaved flax

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 few yellow leaves at the base are normal as the plant ages. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly across the whole plant.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the top inch of soil before adding more water.

Fine leaved flax: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your fine leaved flax 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 to keep the plant looking tidy.
Is yellowing always a sign of disease?: No, it is usually a sign of environmental stress like improper watering.

Why are my Fairy Flax leaves turning yellow?