Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to help the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.

Can yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not return to green. It is best to remove it.

Green foxtail: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top inch of soil to check for dampness.
Observe the plant for 6 hours to see if it receives direct sunlight.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays soggy and the leaves look limp or mushy.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before adding more water. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so extra water can escape.
Insufficient Light
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks pale and the lower leaves turn yellow while reaching for light.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot that gets full, direct sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. If you are growing indoors, place it directly in a south facing window.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your green foxtail

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 likely a root issue that needs immediate attention. Older leaves at the base turning yellow occasionally is normal as the plant grows.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule of every 3 to 7 days and always prioritize bright, direct light.

Green foxtail: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your green foxtail 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 snip them off with clean scissors to help the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.
Can yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not return to green. It is best to remove it.

Why are my green foxtail leaves turning yellow?