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 too much sun cause yellowing?

Yes, intense direct sun can bleach leaves, making them look yellow or washed out.

American germander: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top inch of soil to check for moisture.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Look for signs of pests on the undersides of the leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow starting from the bottom of the plant and the soil feels constantly soggy.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before adding more water. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: Leaves turn a pale yellow while the veins remain green, often indicating a lack of nitrogen or iron.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season. Avoid over fertilizing as this can burn the roots.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your american germander

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 a few older leaves at the base to yellow and drop occasionally. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly across the entire plant.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and ensure the plant has good airflow around its base.

American germander: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your american germander 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 too much sun cause yellowing?: Yes, intense direct sun can bleach leaves, making them look yellow or washed out.

Why are my American germander leaves turning yellow?