Tree leaves may turn yellow during the growing season for various reasons, from insufficient water and nutrients to pest infestations. Sometimes, leaf yellowing should give you no reason to worry. However, tree leaves turning yellow may cause dieback and premature death.  

As a top-rated tree removal service in Phoenix, we’ll highlight several causes of tree leaves turning yellow and their respective remedies.  

Pests and Diseases  

Pests and disease may damage a tree’s foliage and branches or xylem and phloem (tissues responsible for transporting water and nutrients throughout the tree), leading to leaf yellowing or premature death.  

Since countless pests and diseases can affect your trees and cause leaf yellowing, get in touch with a certified arborist.

Improper Watering or Poor Drainage  

An excessive or insufficient water supply may lead to leaf yellowing. Since both over and under-watering exhibit similar symptoms, a soil moisture check can help you pinpoint the issue. Overly wet soil will suffocate the roots, while too little water restricts plants from absorbing essential nutrients.  

You can prevent or avoid water issues by starting with porous, well-draining soils. Generally, water your plants only when the soil feels dry. If a finger or screwdriver test reveals cool or moist soils, give the soil a few days to dry before watering again.  

Nutrient Deficiency  

A lack of nutrients essential for plant growth can lead to tree leaves turning yellow. Once you notice the leaves turning yellow, do a soil test to determine which nutrients your plant needs. When it comes to the health of your trees, a proper evaluation matters.  

A certified arborist can shed light on the specific nutrients involved and recommend suitable remedies. Sometimes, your tree needs only proper care and maintenance.  

Root Damage   

Damaged or compacted roots struggle to deliver what your plant needs to stay strong and healthy. Compacted roots, for example, inhibit the movement of water, oxygen, and nutrients, leading to issues that manifest as yellow leaves.

Improper Soil PH  

Soil pH influences plant nutrient uptake. Most plants thrive in neutral or slightly acidic soils. If the soil pH strays higher or lower than the plant’s optimal range, it may struggle to absorb some nutrients.   

A simple soil test will identify soil pH issues so you can restore pH balance. Once you have optimal pH levels, the yellow leaves may regain their green color.  

Trust Your Local Tree Experts for Help  

Tree Workers of Phoenix has been in business for about three decades. We believe in having a certified arborist at every service call to ensure your trees and shrubs receive proper care. Count on us for the following comprehensive tree services:  

• Tree trimming and pruning  
• Tree planting and fertilizing  
• Tree shaping  
• Tree removal  
• Emergency storm tree service  

Call Tree Workers of Phoenix at (602) 320-2797 to request a free quote for service in Phoenix and the surrounding areas. Reach out to learn how to bring a tree out of dormancy or for more information on what it means when you start seeing tree leaves turning yellow.