Does my Myrtle need direct sun?

It loves bright, indirect light and can handle some direct sun. Too little light will cause the leaves to yellow and the plant to lose its shape.

Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

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

Common Myrtle: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Look at where the plant is sitting to ensure it gets enough light.
Inspect the leaves for any signs of pests.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and may feel soft or limp. This often happens when the soil is kept constantly wet for too long.
What to do: Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings. Ensure you are only watering when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Insufficient Light
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn a pale, sickly yellow and the plant starts to stretch out. This happens when the plant is kept in a dark corner away from windows.
What to do: Move your Myrtle to a brighter spot where it can get plenty of bright, indirect light. A spot near a sunny window is perfect for this plant.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common myrtle

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 at the bottom to yellow and drop occasionally. Be concerned if the yellowing is widespread or happening on new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep the plant in a bright location. Rotate the pot occasionally to ensure even light exposure.

Common Myrtle: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common myrtle 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

Does my Myrtle need direct sun?: It loves bright, indirect light and can handle some direct sun. Too little light will cause the leaves to yellow and the plant to lose its shape.
Should I cut off the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. They will not turn green again, and removing them helps the plant focus energy on new growth.

Why are my Common Myrtle leaves turning yellow?