Should I cut off the yellow fronds?

Yes, you can trim them off at the base with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and helps it focus energy on healthy growth.

Does yellowing mean I need to fertilize?

Usually not. Yellowing is almost always about water or light, so check those first before adding any plant food.

Common polypody: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture by pressing your finger an inch into the dirt.
Inspect the location to ensure the plant is not in direct sunlight.
Look at the drainage holes to make sure the pot is not sitting in standing water.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The fronds turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. You may notice the soil stays soggy for days.
What to do: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Too much direct sun
Most likely
How to tell: The fronds bleach out or turn yellow starting from the tips. This happens when the plant is placed in a spot that gets direct sun instead of the shade it prefers.
What to do: Move your fern to a spot with partial or full shade. Keep it away from windows where harsh afternoon sun hits the foliage.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common polypody

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, lowest fronds to yellow and die back as the plant grows. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly across new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep your fern in a shaded, cool spot.

Common polypody: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common polypody 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 fronds?: Yes, you can trim them off at the base with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and helps it focus energy on healthy growth.
Does yellowing mean I need to fertilize?: Usually not. Yellowing is almost always about water or light, so check those first before adding any plant food.

Why are my common polypody fronds turning yellow?