Most of us expect trees to change color in the fall. Many common varieties explode into vibrant shades of yellow, rust, and gold. However, when you notice tree leaves turning yellow in the spring or summer or yellow on trees that don’t normally change over, you’re right to worry.
There are several potential causes of yellow leaves, and not all of them mean that your tree is dying. Getting help from a tree service in Royal, AR, like Urban Jacks can root out the problem. In fact, the best yellow leaf treatments can save your tree and prevent future issues – if you move quickly.
The Most Common Reasons for Yellowing Tree Leaves
Several conditions can lead to the tree leaves turning yellow outside of fall.
Tree Nutrition Issues
Nutrient deficiencies are one of the most common leaf discoloration causes. Trees need a variety of nutrients to stay healthy, including iron, nitrogen, and magnesium. If the soil doesn’t contain enough of these vital minerals, or there’s something preventing the tree from absorbing them, tree leaf health will suffer.
Overwatering
When there’s too much water in the soil, it reduces the amount of oxygen available to the tree roots. Saturation can lead to tree leaves turning yellow.
Pest Infestations
Sap-sucking insects like spider mites deplete the nutrients from leaves. Nutrient-starved leaves turn yellow and die.
Iron Chlorosis
The most likely nutrient deficiency that causes leaves to lose their green hue is a condition called iron chlorosis. Iron gives chlorophyll its green shade, so if your tree cannot absorb enough iron from the soil, its leaves will soon turn yellow. Typically, chlorosis happens with poor soil conditions, like compaction or too much phosphorus, not a lack of iron.
Leaf Yellowing Solutions For Healthy Trees
If you notice tree leaves turning yellow, can you solve the problem? Yes – here’s how.
Find the Cause
The first step is to figure out why the leaves have yellowed. A soil test is a good start, as it will alert you to any nutrient deficiencies or extreme pH levels that are hindering nutrient absorption. Depending on the soil test results, yellow leaf treatment may require fertilizing or adding amendments to give the tree what it lacks.
Mulching
Adding four to six inches of healthy organic matter, like compost, can go a long way toward improving the soil conditions and healing the tree. Mulch:
- Protects the roots from stress
- Regulates the soil temperature
- Maintains the proper moisture levels
- Prevents soil compaction
In fact, mulching around all trees, including healthy ones, is a good way to prevent issues that cause leaf discoloration.
Manage Moisture
Speaking of moisture, you should also consider your watering habits to determine whether you’re over or underwatering the yellowing tree. A soil moisture meter can help prevent overwatering that will suffocate the roots and harm the tree. Being more mindful about watering might be the only necessary yellow leaf treatment.
Control Pests
Finally, keep watch for pests and take action at the first sign of an infestation. Not only will insects harm tree leaves, but they can also spread fungi and diseases from other infected plants. A professional arborist will be able to recommend solutions to address yellow tree leaves, fix damage, and get rid of the infestation.
Get Professional Help With Tree Care Concerns
If you want help understanding tree chlorosis, have concerns about tree leaves turning yellow, or wonder about the condition of the soil in your yard, Urban Jacks has answers. Call our tree care experts at (501) 494-1363 today so that we can help you restore your Royal, AR, trees to perfect health!