Should I remove the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can remove yellow leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. If they fall off on their own, rake them up and dispose of them to keep the area clean.

Can overwatering cause yellow leaves?

Yes, overwatering is a common cause of yellowing because it prevents the roots from getting oxygen. Always check the soil moisture before adding more water.

Blackcurrant: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil around the base to see if it is waterlogged.
Examine the yellow leaves to see if the veins are still green.
Inspect the plant for any signs of pests that might be weakening it.

Likely causes

Waterlogged soil
Possible
How to tell: Leaves turn yellow and may drop prematurely, especially if the soil stays soggy for days. The roots may be struggling to breathe in heavy, wet clay.
What to do: Improve drainage by adding organic matter like compost to the soil. Avoid watering for 7 to 10 days to let the soil dry out, and ensure the plant is not in a low spot where water pools.
Nutrient deficiency
Possible
How to tell: Leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green, often indicating a lack of iron or magnesium. This usually happens in soil with a high pH.
What to do: Test your soil pH and aim for a range of 6.0 to 7.0. Apply a balanced fertilizer or a specific micronutrient supplement if the soil test confirms a deficiency.

Find out what's wrong with your blackcurrant

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 leaves at the bottom of the bush to turn yellow and drop in late summer as the plant prepares for dormancy. Worry if the yellowing is happening to young leaves or spreading rapidly across the whole bush.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure your bush is planted in well draining soil and feed it with a balanced organic fertilizer every spring. Consistent watering during dry spells helps keep the plant strong against stress.

Keep your blackcurrant healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Should I remove the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can remove yellow leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. If they fall off on their own, rake them up and dispose of them to keep the area clean.
Can overwatering cause yellow leaves?: Yes, overwatering is a common cause of yellowing because it prevents the roots from getting oxygen. Always check the soil moisture before adding more water.

Why are my blackcurrant leaves turning yellow?