Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. They will not turn green again.

Can too much fertilizer cause yellow leaves?

Yes, excessive fertilizer can burn the roots and cause yellowing. Only feed during the growing season.

Heartleaf Philodendron: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top 2 inches of soil to check for dampness.
Inspect the pot for standing water in the saucer.
Move the plant closer to a window if it is in a dark corner.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays soggy for a long time and the yellow leaves feel soft or mushy.
What to do: Let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so extra water can escape.
Low Light
Possible
How to tell: The plant is losing its vibrant color and the leaves are yellowing slowly while the stems stretch out.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with brighter indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can burn the leaves.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your heartleaf philodendron

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 leaf at the base to turn yellow and drop occasionally. Be concerned if multiple leaves yellow at once.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule and only water when the top soil feels dry.

Heartleaf Philodendron: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your heartleaf philodendron 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. They will not turn green again.
Can too much fertilizer cause yellow leaves?: Yes, excessive fertilizer can burn the roots and cause yellowing. Only feed during the growing season.

Why are my heartleaf philodendron leaves turning yellow?