Can I use regular fertilizer to fix yellow leaves?

Only if the yellowing is caused by a general nitrogen deficiency. If it is an iron issue, you need a specific iron supplement.

Will the yellow leaves turn green again?

Usually no. Focus on keeping new growth healthy and green.

Coastal she oak: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil two inches below the surface.
Check the soil pH level with a home kit.
Inspect the base of the trunk for standing water.

Likely causes

Iron deficiency
Most likely
How to tell: Newer growth appears pale or yellow while the veins remain green. This happens in soils with high pH levels.
What to do: Apply a chelated iron supplement to the soil around the base. Follow the package instructions for dosage based on the tree size.
Waterlogged soil
Possible
How to tell: The entire canopy looks yellow and the soil feels constantly soggy. This prevents oxygen from reaching the roots.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and improve soil drainage by adding organic matter. Ensure the planting site is not in a low spot where water collects.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your coastal she oak

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

It is normal for older interior needles to yellow and drop in autumn. Be concerned if the yellowing is widespread across the outer branches.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain well drained soil and test your soil pH periodically to ensure it stays in the slightly acidic to neutral range.

Coastal she oak: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your coastal she oak 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

Can I use regular fertilizer to fix yellow leaves?: Only if the yellowing is caused by a general nitrogen deficiency. If it is an iron issue, you need a specific iron supplement.
Will the yellow leaves turn green again?: Usually no. Focus on keeping new growth healthy and green.

Guides to these causes

Chlorosis

Why are my Coastal she oak leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your coastal she oak?