Can I fix yellow leaves with fertilizer?

Only if the yellowing is caused by a nutrient deficiency. If the cause is overwatering, adding fertilizer will stress the plant further.

Will the yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf turns yellow, it will not recover its green color. Focus on preventing the issue from spreading to new leaves.

Magnolia: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture level with your finger.
Test the soil pH using a home kit.
Inspect the area for poor drainage or standing water.

Likely causes

Iron Chlorosis
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green. This happens when the soil pH is too high for the tree to absorb nutrients.
What to do: Test your soil pH and aim for a range of 5.0 to 6.5. Apply a chelated iron supplement or soil acidifier according to the package instructions to lower the pH.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look pale and limp, often starting from the bottom of the plant. The soil feels soggy or swampy to the touch.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and allow the top 3 inches of soil to dry out. Ensure your planting site has good drainage and is not in a low spot where water pools.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your 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 a few older leaves to yellow and drop in the spring. Worry if the yellowing is widespread or affects new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain slightly acidic soil and avoid planting in heavy clay that holds too much water.

Magnolia: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

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

Can I fix yellow leaves with fertilizer?: Only if the yellowing is caused by a nutrient deficiency. If the cause is overwatering, adding fertilizer will stress the plant further.
Will the yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf turns yellow, it will not recover its green color. Focus on preventing the issue from spreading to new leaves.

Guides to these causes

Chlorosis

Why are my magnolia's leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your magnolia?