Why Is My Kentia Palm Turning Yellow?

The Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana) is prized for its lush, deep green fronds. But sometimes those fronds begin to yellow, worrying plant owners. Yellowing doesn’t always mean your palm is dying — it can be caused by natural ageing or correctable care issues. This guide explains the main reasons Kentia Palms turn yellow and what you can do to fix them.

Causes of Yellowing in Kentia Palms

There are several common reasons why Kentia Palms develop yellow leaves:

Overwatering: Soggy soil reduces oxygen to roots, causing yellow fronds.
Underwatering: Dry soil leads to wilted, yellowing leaves from dehydration.
Nutrient deficiencies: Low nitrogen or magnesium is a frequent cause of pale, yellow fronds.
Low light: Insufficient light indoors slows growth and causes pale foliage.
Ageing: Lower, older fronds naturally yellow before dying off — a normal part of growth.

Quick Check: If new fronds are healthy but old ones yellow, it’s natural ageing. If new fronds are yellowing, it’s usually care-related.

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How to Fix Yellow Kentia Palm Leaves

Yellowing can often be corrected with a few changes in care:

Balance watering: Water when the top 5–7 cm of soil feels dry. Empty saucers so roots don’t sit in water.
Check light levels: Place your palm in bright, indirect light. Avoid dark corners or direct harsh sun.
Fertilise gently: Feed with a diluted liquid fertiliser such as CompleteGrow Indoor Plant Food Concentrate every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer.
Trim carefully: Remove only fully yellow fronds to allow the palm to redirect energy.
Repot if needed: In compacted soil, repot with fresh, free-draining potting mix to improve aeration.

Tip: Indoors, yellowing is often a sign of either overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Correcting these usually restores healthy green fronds.

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Kentia Palm Yellowing FAQs

Q1: Should I cut yellow leaves off my Kentia Palm?
A: Yes, but only once they are completely yellow or brown. Partially green fronds still provide nutrients.

Q2: Why are my indoor Kentia Palm leaves yellow?
A: Most often from overwatering or low light. Check soil moisture and move closer to a bright, indirect light source.

Q3: Can fertiliser fix yellow Kentia Palms?
A: Yes, if yellowing is due to nutrient deficiency. Use a gentle liquid fertiliser like CompleteGrow Indoor Plant Food to restore colour.

Q4: Is yellowing normal in Kentia Palms?
A: Yes. Lower, older fronds naturally yellow and die off as part of the palm’s growth cycle.

Q5: How long until yellow Kentia Palms recover?
A: Once care is corrected, new growth usually appears healthy within 6–8 weeks.