My Plant Advisor

Why are my plant’s leaves turning yellow?

Most likely cause:

Overwatering is the most common reason for yellowing leaves. When roots sit in constantly wet soil, they can’t get enough oxygen and begin to rot. This damage prevents the plant from taking up water and nutrients properly, which shows up as yellow leaves—often starting with the oldest, lower leaves.

How to fix: 

• Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out before watering again.
• Check that the pot has drainage holes and that water isn’t pooling in the saucer.
• Gently slide the plant out of its pot—if roots are brown, mushy, or smell bad, trim them back with clean scissors.
• Repot into fresh, well‑draining soil and a pot with proper drainage.
• Going forward, water based on soil dryness, not a fixed schedule.