Trees With Yellow Leaves Are Not Healthy
June 23, 2006
Occasionally, we see trees with light green to yellow leaves when driving down the street. While this may add variety to the landscape, yellowing is often a sign of an unhealthy tree.
Light green or yellow leaves indicate the presence of chlorosis, a nutrient (usually iron) deficiency. Tree experts refer to chlorosis due to a lack of iron as “iron chlorosis.” It primarily affects Pin Oaks, although other trees may suffer.
Chlorosis is present throughout Kansas City, although the majority of afflicted trees are found in newer parts of town where soil pH is high.
Thankfully, deficient trees can be treated. The most effective solution is to inject iron directly into the trunk of the tree.
“There are two dominant explanations for the number of chlorotic trees in Kansas City. First, dry spring seasons result in limited root growth, decreasing the surface area from which trees can draw nutrients. Second, typically high pH soils make iron in the soil unavailable to the tree,” Jim Cameron Ryan Lawn & Tree arborist said.
Untreated, iron chlorosis causes trees to slowly decline and eventually die.