Can I save a yellow frond?

Once a frond has turned fully yellow, it will not turn green again. You can trim it off to help the plant focus energy on new growth.

Does this fern need fertilizer?

Only use a very weak, balanced liquid fertilizer once or twice during the growing season. Too much fertilizer can cause leaf burn and yellowing.

Resurrection fern: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the light intensity at the current location.
Inspect the water source for high mineral content.
Examine the fronds for any signs of scale insects.

Likely causes

Sunburn
Possible
How to tell: The fronds look bleached or yellowed specifically on the side facing the light source.
What to do: Move your fern to a spot with bright, indirect light or partial shade. Ensure it is not sitting in direct sun rays that hit the glass.
Hard Water
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or develop crusty white deposits from mineral buildup.
What to do: Switch to using distilled, rainwater, or filtered water for misting and soaking. Avoid tap water that contains high levels of chlorine or minerals.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your resurrection fern

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 yellowing spreads rapidly across the whole plant, it is a sign of stress. It is normal for the oldest, lowest fronds to yellow and die back occasionally.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the fern in consistent, filtered light and use only soft water for hydration.

Resurrection fern: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your resurrection fern 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 I save a yellow frond?: Once a frond has turned fully yellow, it will not turn green again. You can trim it off to help the plant focus energy on new growth.
Does this fern need fertilizer?: Only use a very weak, balanced liquid fertilizer once or twice during the growing season. Too much fertilizer can cause leaf burn and yellowing.

Why are my resurrection fern's leaves turning yellow?