Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. This helps the plant focus energy on healthy growth.

Can too much sun cause yellowing?

Usually, too much sun causes bleaching or crispy edges rather than yellowing. If the yellowing is uniform, it is likely a water or soil issue.

Japanese dandelion: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top inch of soil to check for dampness.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Look for signs of pests hiding under the leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look soft and yellow, and the soil feels constantly soggy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so extra water can escape.
Nutrient deficiency
Possible
How to tell: Older leaves turn yellow while the plant looks generally pale and stunted.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season. Do not overfeed, as this can burn the roots.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your japanese dandelion

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 die back as the plant grows. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly to newer leaves.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule where you only water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Japanese dandelion: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your japanese dandelion 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 keep the plant looking tidy. This helps the plant focus energy on healthy growth.
Can too much sun cause yellowing?: Usually, too much sun causes bleaching or crispy edges rather than yellowing. If the yellowing is uniform, it is likely a water or soil issue.

Why are my Japanese dandelion leaves turning yellow?