What is Iron Chlorosis

Iron Chlorosis is defined as an iron deficiency. This is a common issue in the Fargo-Moorhead area due to alkaline soil. High pH levels in the Red River Valley makes iron absorption difficult for certain trees like Birch, Oak and most commonly, Maple. Although high pH soil is usually the culprit of iron chlorosis, soil with low oxygen can also be a cause, such as areas with highly compacted soil.

 

What to look for

Iron Chlorosis will present with light yellow leaves with green veins. Iron is used to make chlorophyll; chlorophyll gives trees their green color and traps the sunlight for photosynthesis. The lack of iron causes yellowing in the leaves. If left untreated, it is deadly for the tree.

Treatment 

The best way to control Iron Chlorosis is applying iron. Baker Garden & Gift carries chelated iron, a powder to amend the soil. This should be applied in the spring every year or every other year depending on the severity of the issue. It is best to apply in the spring when tree growth is occurring.

  • Use between 1-2oz of chelated iron per inch of the trunk diameter
  • Mix the measured iron with the amount of water needed to water your tree size
  • Uniformly poke holes in the ground around the base of the tree out to the drip line. Make sure the holes are deep enough to get past the grass and grass roots.
  • Pour the mixed iron-water into the holes.
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