Is it normal for the bottom leaf to turn yellow?

Yes, it is perfectly normal for the oldest leaf at the base to eventually yellow and drop off. This is just the plant's natural growth cycle.

Can I fix a yellow leaf?

Once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not turn green again. It will eventually fall off on its own, so you can just let it be.

Moth Orchid: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the center of the plant for any trapped water.
Observe the light levels where the plant is currently sitting.
Look at the roots to ensure they are not rotting.

Likely causes

Crown Rot
Most likely
How to tell: The center of the plant where the leaves emerge is turning yellow or mushy. The leaves may start to fall off from the center outward.
What to do: Stop getting water in the crown when you irrigate. If the rot is advanced, dab the area with hydrogen peroxide and keep the plant in a well ventilated spot.
Too Much Direct Sun
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look pale or yellow with bleached patches. This happens when the plant is exposed to harsh, direct sunlight.
What to do: Move your orchid to a spot with bright, indirect light. A north or east facing window is usually perfect for these plants.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your moth orchid

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

If the bottom leaf turns yellow and shrivels, it is often just an old leaf dying off naturally. If the top or center leaves turn yellow, it is a sign of a serious problem.

Stopping it coming back

Water carefully at the base of the plant to avoid the crown, and provide bright, filtered light rather than direct sun.

Moth Orchid: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your moth orchid 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

Is it normal for the bottom leaf to turn yellow?: Yes, it is perfectly normal for the oldest leaf at the base to eventually yellow and drop off. This is just the plant's natural growth cycle.
Can I fix a yellow leaf?: Once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not turn green again. It will eventually fall off on its own, so you can just let it be.

Guides to these causes

Root Rot

Why are my moth orchid leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your moth orchid?