If you’ve noticed your Oak, Birch, or Maple trees displaying lime green or even yellow leaves, it may not just be a seasonal change. These symptoms are signs of chlorosis, a serious condition that can weaken and eventually kill trees if left untreated.
What is Chlorosis?
Chlorosis occurs when trees are unable to absorb essential nutrients—most often iron in Oaks and Birches, or manganese in Maples. Without these nutrients, leaves lose chlorophyll, the green pigment that helps trees turn sunlight into food through photosynthesis. The result is pale, yellowing foliage that signals a decline in the tree’s overall health.
Healthy trees growing in deep, rich, acidic soils (with a pH of 5.0–6.5) thrive because their roots can easily take in the nutrients they need. Unfortunately, many urban and suburban trees don’t have that advantage. During construction, nutrient-rich topsoil is often stripped away, leaving behind heavy clay soils with high alkalinity (pH of 7.0 or higher). Over time, this environment makes it difficult for roots to do their job—setting the stage for chlorosis.
How Chlorosis Harms Trees
When chlorophyll production drops, trees can’t convert sunlight into the starches and sugars they rely on for energy. Yellowing leaves are more than just unsightly; they’re a warning sign that the tree is starving. Without intervention, chlorotic trees become weaker, decline over time, and may die prematurely.
Treatment Options That Work
At Tree Green, we’ve developed effective programs to restore health and color to chlorotic trees.
Trunk Injections for Oaks and River Birches
For over 50 years, we’ve successfully treated Oaks and River Birches with systemic iron trunk injections. This process delivers chelated iron directly into the tree’s vascular system. Within weeks, the leaves begin to green up, restoring the tree’s ability to generate energy. Injections are typically repeated every three years, giving trees the boost they need to survive and thrive.
Basal Root Drenching for Maples, Oaks, and River Birches
Our annual basal root drenching delivers a blend of 22+ minerals, nutrients, and amino acids directly into the soil at the base of the tree. This mix nourishes fine root hairs, improves soil structure, and enhances the tree’s ability to absorb what it needs to grow strong. While Maples don’t respond well to trunk injections, root drenching alone has been shown to dramatically improve their health and extend their lifespan.
Real Results You Can See
Our treatments have transformed countless Oaks, Birches, and Maples across the area. Trees that were once yellow and declining now display full, deep green canopies and continue to shade and beautify properties for years. In fact, side-by-side comparisons show that treated trees grow taller, fuller, and healthier than untreated ones planted at the same time.
Protecting Your Trees from Chlorosis
If your trees are showing lime green or yellow leaves, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Chlorosis is progressive—and early treatment makes all the difference in restoring health and preventing premature loss.
Keep Your Trees Healthy and Strong
Tree Green has been helping homeowners protect and preserve their trees for more than 50 years. Whether you’re noticing yellowing leaves for the first time or have a beloved Oak, Birch, or Maple that’s been struggling for years, our certified arborists can help. Contact us today and request a free evaluation.
