Will yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf has turned yellow due to chlorosis or damage, it will not return to green. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy.

Should I fertilize yellow leaves?

Do not fertilize until you confirm the cause. If the issue is iron deficiency, adding standard fertilizer might make the problem worse.

Southern Magnolia: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture level two inches deep.
Test the soil pH with a home kit.
Inspect the underside of leaves for pests.

Likely causes

Iron Chlorosis
Most likely
How to tell: The veins remain green while the leaf tissue turns yellow. This happens when the soil pH is too high for the tree to absorb iron.
What to do: Test your soil pH and aim for a range of 5.0 to 6.5. Apply chelated iron to the soil according to the package instructions to correct the deficiency.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: Leaves turn yellow and may feel soft or limp. The soil stays soggy for days after watering.
What to do: Reduce your watering frequency to every 14 days. Ensure the area around the base has good drainage and is not sitting in standing water.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your southern magnolia

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 leaves to yellow and drop in spring as new growth appears. Worry if the yellowing is widespread across the entire canopy.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep the soil slightly acidic with organic mulch like pine needles.

Southern Magnolia: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your southern magnolia 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

Will yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf has turned yellow due to chlorosis or damage, it will not return to green. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy.
Should I fertilize yellow leaves?: Do not fertilize until you confirm the cause. If the issue is iron deficiency, adding standard fertilizer might make the problem worse.

Guides to these causes

Chlorosis

Why are my Southern Magnolia leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your southern magnolia?