Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can gently twist off any yellow or mushy segments. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.

Can too much sun cause yellowing?

Yes, direct sun can bleach the leaves and turn them a pale yellow or reddish color. Move your cactus to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Thanksgiving cactus: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil surface to check for dampness.
Inspect the base of the stems for mushy or dark spots.
Lift the pot to see if it feels heavy with water.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The segments feel soft or mushy to the touch and the soil stays damp for a long time. You might notice the yellowing starting near the base of the plant.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape. Only water again when the surface feels dry.
Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look shriveled or thin and the soil has pulled away from the edges of the pot. The yellowing often appears on the older, lower segments first.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough soak until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a schedule of watering every 7 to 14 days once the top layer of soil feels dry. Do not let the plant sit in standing water.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your thanksgiving cactus

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 old segments at the base to yellow and drop as the plant ages. Be concerned if the yellowing spreads rapidly across many healthy stems.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the soil moisture with your finger before adding more water. Use a well draining potting mix to prevent water from sitting around the roots.

Thanksgiving cactus: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your thanksgiving cactus 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 leaves?: Yes, you can gently twist off any yellow or mushy segments. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.
Can too much sun cause yellowing?: Yes, direct sun can bleach the leaves and turn them a pale yellow or reddish color. Move your cactus to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Thanksgiving cactus leaves turning yellow?