Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean shears to keep the plant looking tidy. This also helps you monitor if new leaves are turning yellow.

Can too much sun cause yellowing?

Yes, if the plant is in intense, direct sun, the leaves may bleach to a pale yellow or white. Move the plant to a spot with partial shade.

Heavenly bamboo: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil 2 inches deep.
Inspect the base for standing water.
Check for signs of pests on the undersides of leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly wet or swampy to the touch. You might notice a musty smell coming from the base of the plant.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. Ensure your drainage is working well by clearing any debris from the area.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green. This often happens in soil that has not been fertilized for a long time.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Repeat this once every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your heavenly bamboo

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 old leaves at the bottom of the plant to yellow and drop occasionally. Be concerned if the yellowing spreads rapidly across the entire plant.

Stopping it coming back

Water only when the top inch of soil is dry and ensure the soil drains freely.

Heavenly bamboo: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your heavenly bamboo 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 with clean shears to keep the plant looking tidy. This also helps you monitor if new leaves are turning yellow.
Can too much sun cause yellowing?: Yes, if the plant is in intense, direct sun, the leaves may bleach to a pale yellow or white. Move the plant to a spot with partial shade.

Why are my Heavenly Bamboo leaves turning yellow?