Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean shears to keep the plant looking tidy. This also helps you see if the yellowing is continuing to spread.

Can too much sun cause yellow leaves?

Japanese wisteria loves full sun, so it is very unlikely to yellow from too much light. If your plant is in a very hot spot, ensure it gets enough water to compensate for the heat.

Japanese wisteria: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil moisture level with your finger.
Inspect the drainage holes for blockages.
Check the undersides of leaves for signs of pests.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. You might notice a sour smell coming from the soil.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 3 inches of soil dry out. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and never leave the plant sitting in a saucer of water.
Nutrient deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green. This often happens if the plant has been in the same container for too long.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4 weeks during the growing season. If the plant is in a container, consider repotting it into fresh, nutrient rich soil.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your japanese wisteria

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 leaves at the base of the vine to yellow and drop in late summer. Be concerned if new growth is yellowing or if the yellowing spreads rapidly across the entire plant.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and provide a high quality fertilizer during the spring and summer months.

Japanese wisteria: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your japanese wisteria 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 shears to keep the plant looking tidy. This also helps you see if the yellowing is continuing to spread.
Can too much sun cause yellow leaves?: Japanese wisteria loves full sun, so it is very unlikely to yellow from too much light. If your plant is in a very hot spot, ensure it gets enough water to compensate for the heat.

Why are my Japanese wisteria leaves turning yellow?