Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.

Can low light cause yellow leaves?

Yes, if the plant does not get enough light, it may struggle to maintain its foliage. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Creeping Jenny: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it is bone dry or soaking wet.
Check the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Inspect the stems for any signs of mushy decay.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft or mushy and the soil stays wet for several days. You might notice a sour smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out slightly before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape freely.
Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look crispy or pale yellow and the soil feels dry to the touch. The plant may look wilted before the yellowing starts.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until moisture runs out of the bottom of the pot. Keep the soil consistently damp by checking it every 2 to 3 days.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your creeping jenny

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 plant to yellow and die off as the plant grows. Worry if the yellowing is spreading rapidly across new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep the soil damp but never waterlogged.

Creeping Jenny: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your creeping jenny 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 trim them off with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.
Can low light cause yellow leaves?: Yes, if the plant does not get enough light, it may struggle to maintain its foliage. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Creeping Jenny leaves turning yellow?