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Check these first
- Check if the soil is waterlogged or muddy.
- Look for signs of standing water near the plant base.
- Check when you last applied fertilizer.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The soil stays soggy and smells slightly sour. The yellowing often starts at the base of the plant.
What to do: Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Ensure the planting site has good drainage so water does not pool around the roots.
Nutrient deficiency
PossibleHow to tell: The leaves turn a pale, sickly yellow across the whole plant. This happens when the soil has been depleted of nutrients over time.
What to do: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in the early spring. This provides the necessary nutrients for the grass to regain its deep green color.
Find out what's wrong with your matgrass
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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
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When to worry
A few yellow leaves at the base are normal as the plant cycles through old growth. Worry if the yellowing is widespread or if the plant looks stunted.
Stopping it coming back
Avoid overwatering by checking the soil before you reach for the hose. Proper drainage is the best defense against yellowing.
Matgrass: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your matgrass 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Can I fix yellow leaves?
- Once a leaf turns fully yellow, it will not turn green again. It is best to let the plant shed it naturally or trim it away.
- How often should I fertilize?
- Once a year in the spring is usually plenty for Matgrass. Do not overdo it, as too much fertilizer can cause other issues.
More problems with Matgrass
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.