Chlorosis (deficiency, often iron)

Leaves yellow between veins that stay green, mainly on young shoots: not a contagious disease but a deficiency, very common in chalky soil where iron becomes hard to absorb.

How to recognise

• Look closely at a yellow leaf: if the veins form a green network on a yellow background, it is the classic sign of iron deficiency.
• Check that the youngest leaves are affected first (iron deficiency starts at the shoot tips).

What to do

• Apply an iron-rich feed (iron chelate) at the base, following the stated dose, then water it in.
• Improve the soil with compost and a mulch: living soil releases iron and trace elements better.

Prevent

• In chalky soil, choose rootstocks and species that tolerate lime.
• Avoid overwatering and waterlogged soil, which worsen the iron blockage.

Trees affected