Can I use regular garden fertilizer?

No, regular fertilizers often raise the pH. Always choose a formula specifically for acid loving plants.

Will the yellow leaves turn green again?

Usually no. Focus on preventing the new growth from turning yellow.

Japanese skimmia: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Test your soil pH to see if it is above 6.5.
Inspect the undersides of leaves for signs of pests.
Check if the soil is staying too wet for too long.

Likely causes

High Soil pH
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green, a classic sign of chlorosis.
What to do: Apply an acidic fertilizer formulated for ericaceous plants. You can also amend the soil with elemental sulfur to lower the pH level over time.
Iron Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: Newer leaves appear pale or yellow even when the soil is moist.
What to do: Use a liquid iron chelate supplement according to the package instructions. Ensure your soil drainage is good so the roots can actually absorb the nutrients.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your japanese skimmia

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 a serious concern. A few older leaves yellowing at the base is normal as the plant ages.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil acidic by using pine bark mulch and avoiding alkaline fertilizers.

Japanese skimmia: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your japanese skimmia 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

Can I use regular garden fertilizer?: No, regular fertilizers often raise the pH. Always choose a formula specifically for acid loving plants.
Will the yellow leaves turn green again?: Usually no. Focus on preventing the new growth from turning yellow.

Guides to these causes

Chlorosis

Why are my Japanese skimmia leaves turning yellow?