Is yellowing always a disease?

No, it can also be caused by poor drainage or too little light. Check your soil moisture first.

Should I fertilize yellow leaves?

Do not fertilize a sick plant. Wait until you have identified and fixed the underlying issue.

Hedge mustard: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for fuzzy growth on the underside of yellowing leaves.
Check if the soil is waterlogged or soggy.
Ensure the plant has enough space for air to move around it.

Likely causes

Downy mildew
Most likely
How to tell: You will see yellow patches on the upper surface of the leaves. In humid conditions, a fuzzy growth may appear on the undersides.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid wetting the foliage when you water.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and the soil feels constantly soggy. The plant may look limp or start to smell earthy.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out slightly before the next watering. Ensure your pot has good drainage holes so excess water can escape.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your hedge mustard

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 bottom leaves to yellow and drop as the plant grows. Worry if the yellowing is spreading rapidly to the upper leaves.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves to keep them dry. Provide plenty of space between plants to encourage airflow.

Hedge mustard: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your hedge mustard 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

Is yellowing always a disease?: No, it can also be caused by poor drainage or too little light. Check your soil moisture first.
Should I fertilize yellow leaves?: Do not fertilize a sick plant. Wait until you have identified and fixed the underlying issue.

Guides to these causes

Downy Mildew

Why are my hedge mustard leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your hedge mustard?