Should I fertilize a yellowing tree?

Only if you are sure the soil is not waterlogged. Fertilizing a stressed, overwatered tree can make the situation worse.

Can poor drainage cause yellowing?

Yes, heavy clay soils that hold too much water will suffocate the roots and cause the needles to yellow.

Monkey puzzle tree: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Press your finger into the soil to check for excess moisture.
Look at the drainage around the base of the tree.
Check if the yellowing is concentrated on older or newer needles.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The needles turn a pale yellow and the soil feels constantly wet or swampy. The tree may look limp.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and allow the soil to dry out. Improve drainage by amending the soil with organic matter if it stays wet for too long.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The needles yellow uniformly across the tree, often starting with older growth. This happens if the soil is depleted of minerals.
What to do: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring. Follow the package instructions for the size of your tree.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your monkey puzzle tree

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

A few yellow needles in the interior of the tree are normal as they age. Worry if the yellowing is widespread or affects the outer canopy.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure the tree is planted in well draining soil and avoid letting it sit in standing water.

Monkey puzzle tree: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your monkey puzzle tree and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I fertilize a yellowing tree?: Only if you are sure the soil is not waterlogged. Fertilizing a stressed, overwatered tree can make the situation worse.
Can poor drainage cause yellowing?: Yes, heavy clay soils that hold too much water will suffocate the roots and cause the needles to yellow.

Why are my Monkey puzzle tree's leaves turning yellow?