Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to help the plant focus its energy on healthy growth. It also keeps the plant looking tidy.

Can yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not return to green. It is best to remove it.

Sweet Marjoram: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it feels soggy.
Check the drainage holes for blockages.
Observe the plant location for adequate sun exposure.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. The soil often smells slightly sour or stays wet for more than a week.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and never let the plant sit in a saucer of standing water.
Low Light
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks pale and yellow, especially on the lower leaves that get less sun. You might notice the stems stretching out and looking thin.
What to do: Move your marjoram to a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you are growing indoors, place it in a south facing window or use a grow light.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sweet marjoram

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 bottom leaves to yellow and drop as the plant grows. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly across the entire plant.

Stopping it coming back

Water only when the top inch of soil is dry and keep the plant in a bright, sunny location.

Sweet Marjoram: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sweet marjoram 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 scissors to help the plant focus its energy on healthy growth. It also keeps the plant looking tidy.
Can yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not return to green. It is best to remove it.

Why are my sweet marjoram leaves turning yellow?