Should I cut off yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip off yellow leaves as they will not turn green again. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.

Does my willow need more sun?

If the leaves are yellowing and the plant looks leggy, it might need more light. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light or partial sun.

Goat willow: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is soggy or dry.
Check the drainage holes to ensure water is flowing out.
Look for signs of pests that might be stressing the plant.

Likely causes

Improper Watering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves may turn yellow and drop if the soil is consistently waterlogged or bone dry. Check the top 2 inches of soil to see if it feels soggy or dusty.
What to do: Adjust your schedule to water every 3 to 7 days. Ensure the soil stays damp to the touch but never sits in standing water.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: This is less common for this plant, usually caused by depleted soil in a container. You will see a general yellowing of older leaves while the veins remain green.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the spring and summer. Do not fertilize during the dormant winter months.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your goat willow

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 a few older leaves to yellow and drop as the season changes. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly across the entire canopy.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering routine and use a well draining potting mix if your willow is in a container.

Goat willow: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your goat willow 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 yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip off yellow leaves as they will not turn green again. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.
Does my willow need more sun?: If the leaves are yellowing and the plant looks leggy, it might need more light. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light or partial sun.

Why are my goat willow leaves turning yellow?