Will yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf has turned yellow due to stress, it will not return to green. It is best to let the plant shed it naturally.

Does my strawberry tree need fertilizer?

If your soil is healthy, you likely do not need much fertilizer. If you see yellowing, a balanced, slow release fertilizer can help during the spring.

Why are my strawberry tree leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Feel the soil depth to check for excess moisture.
Inspect the drainage holes for blockages.
Check the leaf veins to see if they remain green.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. The soil stays wet for more than a few days after watering.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 3 inches of soil dry out completely. Ensure your pot has drainage holes or check if the garden soil is heavy clay that holds too much water.
Iron deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The veins of the leaves stay green while the rest of the leaf turns yellow. This often happens in soil that is too alkaline.
What to do: Test your soil pH and aim for a slightly acidic level between 5.5 and 6.5. Apply a chelated iron supplement according to the package instructions to help the plant absorb nutrients.

When to worry

It is normal for a few older leaves near the base to yellow and drop as the plant grows. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly across new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top few inches of soil are dry and ensure your planting site has excellent drainage.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your strawberry tree.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Will yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf has turned yellow due to stress, it will not return to green. It is best to let the plant shed it naturally.
Does my strawberry tree need fertilizer?: If your soil is healthy, you likely do not need much fertilizer. If you see yellowing, a balanced, slow release fertilizer can help during the spring.