Quick answer
Yellow leaves on your African violet have a few possible causes, and on this plant the likeliest is overwatering and early root rot. Check the causes below to find which one fits, then follow its fix.
Overwatering & early root rot. Stop watering. Make sure the pot can actually drain, and wait until the surface of the soil has dried slightly. If the base is mushy or smells sour, unpot it and trim any brown, soft roots before repotting in fresh mix.
Not a match? Compare the signs below to find the one you have.
How to tell
The soil is bone dry, and the yellowing arrives alongside limp drooping leaves rather than soft, mushy growth.
The fix
If the soil is dry, water thoroughly (every 6 to 8 days in summer is the usual pace for an African violet), then settle into feeling the soil before every watering rather than watering on a fixed day.
How to tell
The yellowing comes with pale, stretched new growth leaning toward the nearest window. That combination shows that the spot is too dim for an African violet.
The fix
Move it to a brighter spot, but keep it out of harsh midday sun, which scorches.
How to tell
Older leaves fade to an even pale yellow and growth has clearly slowed, usually after many months in the same tired mix.
The fix
Feed with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer through the growing season, and refresh the top layer or repot if it’s been over a year.
How to tell
A single bottom leaf slowly yellows while the rest of the plant looks healthy and is pushing new growth.
The fix
Nothing is wrong. Snip the spent leaf off and carry on. Plants retire their oldest leaves.
How to tell
Silvery patches with tiny black dots point to thrips.
The fix
Isolate the plant and remove badly damaged flowers or leaves. Avoid soaking the foliage or crown. Use only a thrips treatment labelled for this plant, follow its instructions and test a small area first. If leaves get wet, dry them promptly.
Feel the soil before every watering instead of watering on a schedule, give it bright, indirect light, and feed lightly in spring and summer.
Last reviewed:
