Can low light cause yellow leaves?

Yes, if the plant does not get enough light, the lower leaves will often yellow and drop off. Move it to a brighter spot.

Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and prevents potential fungal issues.

Regal Geranium: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top inch of soil to check for moisture.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Check for signs of pests on the underside of the leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy. The soil stays wet for a long time.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Nutrient deficiency
Possible
How to tell: Older leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green. This often happens if the plant has been in the same pot for a long time.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2 weeks during the growing season. If the plant is root bound, repot it into a slightly larger container with fresh potting mix.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your regal geranium

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

A single yellow leaf at the base of the plant is normal as it ages. Worry if multiple leaves yellow at once or if the stems feel soft.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule and only water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Regal Geranium: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your regal geranium 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

Can low light cause yellow leaves?: Yes, if the plant does not get enough light, the lower leaves will often yellow and drop off. Move it to a brighter spot.
Should I cut off the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and prevents potential fungal issues.

Why are my Regal Geranium's leaves turning yellow?