Trees add beauty and character to your landscape. Sometimes, however, damaging conditions can affect their appearance and health. Among the most common diseases is iron chlorosis, which occurs when the structure is deficient in iron. While a tree service can reverse the effects of this condition, you must know when to seek assistance. Here’s what you need to know. 

A Brief Look at Iron Chlorosis

What causes it?

Even if the soil surrounding a tree contains plenty of iron, the soil may be alkaline. When this is the case, the tree cannot access the iron that it needs to thrive. The problem can worsen if there are issues such as poor drainage and compaction due to construction or foot traffic.

A lack of iron causes the tree to go into a state of chlorosis, preventing it from manufacturing chlorophyll. That, in turn, weakens the tree because it can’t photosynthesize properly. Over time, this can prove fatal to the tree. 

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptom of iron chlorosis is faded or pale leaves. As the condition worsens, they may take on a yellowish tone. The veins, however, remain green.

You may notice that the newest leaves are affected first, followed by the older growths. Leaf loss and weakened growth are also common. The latter symptoms typically occur in conjunction with fading, so it’s crucial to call a tree service for an assessment if you suspect there’s a problem.

Can I prevent this condition?

There are several steps you can take to avoid iron deficiency in your trees. First, avoid overwatering. Water saturation can lead to deficiency, so it’s best to err on the minimal side.

Add no more than two inches of fresh mulch around the tree to protect it and warm the roots in the winter, but avoid bunching the materials against the trunk. This will help reduce water accumulation.

How do professionals treat it?

There are two treatment options. Professionals may opt to inject iron into the tree’s xylem tissue to reverse the symptoms and boost the structure’s health. This treatment usually works quickly, and you may notice brighter, greener leaves within several weeks.

Technicians may also treat the roots with a fertilizer to enhance the soil’s nutrient content and improve overall conditions so that the tree has a better chance of thriving.  
 

If you’re concerned that your tree is sick or dying, have the team at Greatland Tree Service in Anchorage, AK, take a look. Serving the community since 1999, these landscapers have provided a variety of tree services, including removal, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding. Visit them online for information on their work, or call (907) 336-8733 to request a quote.