Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off at the base of the stem to keep the water clean. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.

Can tap water cause yellowing?

Sometimes high chlorine levels in tap water can stress the plant. Let your water sit out for 24 hours before adding it to the container.

Why are my lotus leaves turning yellow? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Measure the hours of direct sunlight your plant receives.
Check the water for signs of cloudiness or debris.
Inspect the soil to see if the fertilizer tablets have dissolved.

Likely causes

Insufficient Sunlight
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look pale or yellow and the plant seems to be stretching toward the light source.
What to do: Move your lotus to a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. If you are growing it indoors, you will need a high intensity grow light positioned directly above the plant.
Nutrient Deficiency
Most likely
How to tell: Older leaves turn yellow while the plant stops producing new growth.
What to do: Apply a specialized aquatic plant fertilizer tablet into the soil near the roots. Follow the package instructions for the size of your container to avoid burning the plant.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your lotus

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 leaves to yellow and die back as the season ends. Worry if the new, emerging leaves are yellowing or if the entire plant looks sickly.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your lotus in full sun and use aquatic fertilizer tablets every 3 to 4 weeks during the growing season.

Lotus: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your lotus 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 at the base of the stem to keep the water clean. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.
Can tap water cause yellowing?: Sometimes high chlorine levels in tap water can stress the plant. Let your water sit out for 24 hours before adding it to the container.

Why are my lotus leaves turning yellow?