The occurrence of iron deficiency or chlorosis increases greatly after periods of heavy rains or wet conditions. Iron chlorosis is quite common in our area and other areas with alkaline (high pH) soils. It affects many different trees and shrubs such as cotoneaster, maples and apples.

The leaves of iron deficient plants are yellow with green veins. In severe cases, all the green is lacking and dead tissue may develop around the edges and sometimes within the body of the leaf. This change in appearance of the leaves is due to failure of the chlorophyll (green material) to develop normally. Iron chlorosis is usually more severe when the amount of water in the soil increases; thus our rain has increased the amount of chlorosis.

Iron deficiency can be corrected by using a compound called iron chelate. It is sold in the powder or liquid forms. These materials will not combine with the soil and remain available to the plants even under unfavorable conditions. The liquid, prepared according to the directions on the container, sprayed directly on the leaves will give a relatively quick response but lasts for only a limited time. The powdered iron, when applied into the ground in the outer root zone will be slower to give results but will give a longer term response.

This page was last updated May 2003

Go to Information Page

Go to Horticulture Page