Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off with clean scissors. They will not turn green again and removing them helps the plant focus energy on new growth.

Can low light cause yellowing?

Yes, if the plant does not get enough light, it cannot support all its leaves. It will shed the older ones to save energy.

Swiss Cheese Plant: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger 5 centimeters into the soil to check for moisture.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Observe the light levels in the current location.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft or mushy and the soil stays wet for a long time.
What to do: Let the top 3 to 5 centimeters of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Low light
Possible
How to tell: The plant is growing slowly and the yellowing happens on older leaves first.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can burn the leaves.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your swiss cheese plant

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, lowest leaf to turn yellow and drop as the plant grows. Worry if multiple leaves yellow at once or if the stem feels squishy.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule where you only water when the top few centimeters of soil are dry.

Swiss Cheese Plant: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your swiss cheese plant 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. They will not turn green again and removing them helps the plant focus energy on new growth.
Can low light cause yellowing?: Yes, if the plant does not get enough light, it cannot support all its leaves. It will shed the older ones to save energy.

Why are my Swiss cheese plant leaves turning yellow?