Should I remove the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to help the plant focus energy on healthy growth.

Can too much sun cause yellowing?

Usually not, as snow peas love full sun. If it is extremely hot, the plant might be heat stressed, but yellowing is rarely the primary symptom.

Why are my snow pea leaves turning yellow? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Inspect the drainage of your garden bed.
Look for signs of pests on the underside of the leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and the soil feels constantly wet or swampy.
What to do: Stop watering until the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure your garden bed or container has excellent drainage to let excess water escape.
Nitrogen deficiency
Possible
How to tell: Older leaves turn pale yellow while the plant growth slows down significantly.
What to do: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea to the soil. Follow the package instructions for application rates to avoid burning the roots.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your snow pea

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 very bottom leaves to yellow as the plant ages. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly to the upper foliage.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistent soil moisture and avoid splashing water onto the leaves while watering.

Snow pea: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your snow pea 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 remove the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to help the plant focus energy on healthy growth.
Can too much sun cause yellowing?: Usually not, as snow peas love full sun. If it is extremely hot, the plant might be heat stressed, but yellowing is rarely the primary symptom.

Why are my snow pea leaves turning yellow?