Spotting yellow leaves on a favorite tree can be disheartening.
These color changes may indicate various issues, so it’s always best to consult with professional tree services in Lakewood, CO, to learn more about the potential causes of yellowing leaves and how to address them. Arborists can quickly diagnose and treat yellowing foliage to salvage sickly trees or provide removal services for those beyond saving. These experts keep your trees healthy and happy through specialized treatments and consistent maintenance services.
If you notice tree leaves turning yellow outside of their typical seasonal color changes, it may be due to environmental stressors such as fungal disease or nutritional issues, including:
Iron Chlorosis
Yellowing leaves are often due to iron chlorosis, a nutrient deficiency that means the tree cannot draw enough iron from the soil to produce chlorophyll (which gives leaves their signature green hue). While this sometimes means there isn’t enough iron available in the soil, it usually occurs when soil conditions prevent proper iron absorption. These conditions include high pH levels, excess phosphorus, soil compaction, or waterlogging.
If iron chlorosis is to blame, the yellowing will start showing up on the tips of new growth before spreading to older leaves. The veins of a leaf may remain green while the blade turns yellow.
Fungal Infection or Root Rot
When trees succumb to fungal infections or root rot, yellowed leaves are often the first sign. Other symptoms of fungal issues include deformed bark and unexplained branch loss. A fungicide may be necessary to correct fungal infections, while root rot requires an adjusted watering schedule (and repotting if a sapling displays overwatering symptoms).
Branches with active fungal infections require removal and safe disposal to prevent the spread of disease throughout the tree and to others nearby. Persistent root rot may require additional drainage solutions, which an arborist can provide advice about.
Pest Infestations
Some pests can damage a tree’s leaves and branches enough to cause discoloration and foliage loss. Holes or insect trails may be visible on the leaves or branches.
It is important to remove the affected branches and apply a safe insecticide under the guidance of a tree care professional. Pests can spread quickly and decimate tree populations, so scheduling a safety inspection at the first sign of an infestation is important.
Contact Bear Creek Tree Service for Help With Yellow Leaves
Bear Creek Tree Service provides reliable tree care to Lakewood, CO, residents. Our experienced team can help you identify and treat various tree issues, from unexplained leaf yellowing to pest infestation symptoms. Our experts also provide removal services for dangerous or infested trees, and locals rely on our diligent contractors to handle these processes safely and efficiently.
If you spot tree leaves turning yellow, and you aren’t sure why, let us take a look and provide a professional health assessment. The sooner you act, the easier it will be to restore your greenery to its former glory. Call 720-299-1409 to schedule an inspection today.