Can I use regular houseplant fertilizer?

No, do not use standard fertilizers as they will wash into the water and cause algae blooms. Always use tablets specifically designed for aquatic plants.

Is yellowing a sign of root rot?

Root rot is rare in this plant because it loves being submerged. Yellowing is almost always about light or nutrients.

Branched bur-reed: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the plant is getting enough direct sun.
Look at the color of the new growth versus the old growth.
Consider when you last fertilized the plant.

Likely causes

Nutrient Deficiency
Most likely
How to tell: The older leaves turn yellow while the rest of the plant looks thin. This happens when the water lacks enough minerals.
What to do: Add an aquatic fertilizer tablet into the soil near the roots. Do this once in the spring to provide a steady supply of nutrients.
Insufficient Light
Possible
How to tell: The leaves are turning pale yellow and the plant looks weak. This often happens if the plant is shaded by other taller plants.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Trim back any overhanging plants that might be blocking the sun.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your branched bur-reed

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-most leaves to turn yellow and die back as the plant grows. Worry only if the yellowing is widespread across the entire plant.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure your plant gets plenty of direct sunlight and provide a balanced fertilizer once per season. This keeps the foliage vibrant and green.

Branched bur-reed: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your branched bur-reed 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 houseplant fertilizer?: No, do not use standard fertilizers as they will wash into the water and cause algae blooms. Always use tablets specifically designed for aquatic plants.
Is yellowing a sign of root rot?: Root rot is rare in this plant because it loves being submerged. Yellowing is almost always about light or nutrients.

Why are my branched bur-reed leaves turning yellow?