Care · Field notes

What to note when a leaf turns yellow

Treat a yellow leaf as a clue, not a complete diagnosis.

Start by recording which leaves are affected. One old lower leaf changing colour is different from several young leaves fading at once. Check soil moisture, drainage, recent moves and the undersides of leaves. A photograph taken in consistent light helps you tell whether the problem is progressing.

Avoid changing watering, location, fertiliser and pot size all on the same day. Several simultaneous changes make it difficult to learn what helped. If the plant is deteriorating quickly, inspect its roots and seek guidance specific to the species. Do not add fertiliser simply because a leaf has changed colour; first establish whether feeding is actually the issue.

Care requirements vary by species and growing conditions. Use these notes as a starting point for observation.