Is yellowing a sign of a pest?

Usually not. Pests on Dawn redwoods are rare, so focus on soil conditions and watering habits first.

Will the yellow needles turn green again?

Once a needle has turned fully yellow, it likely will not turn green again. Focus on ensuring the new growth comes in healthy.

Dawn redwood: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is waterlogged or swampy.
Test the soil pH level with a home kit.
Look for green veins on the yellowing needles.

Likely causes

Iron chlorosis
Most likely
How to tell: The needles turn yellow while the veins remain green. This is common in soils with a high pH level.
What to do: Test your soil pH and add elemental sulfur if it is too alkaline. You can also apply a chelated iron supplement to help the tree recover.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: The needles turn a pale yellow and the tree looks generally weak. The soil may smell sour or feel like mud.
What to do: Improve soil drainage by amending the area with organic matter. If the tree is in a low spot, consider installing a drain or mounding the soil.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your dawn redwood

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

Worry if the yellowing is widespread and the tree stops growing. A few yellow needles in the interior of the tree are normal as they age.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure the tree is planted in well draining soil and avoid overwatering.

Dawn redwood: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

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

Is yellowing a sign of a pest?: Usually not. Pests on Dawn redwoods are rare, so focus on soil conditions and watering habits first.
Will the yellow needles turn green again?: Once a needle has turned fully yellow, it likely will not turn green again. Focus on ensuring the new growth comes in healthy.

Guides to these causes

Chlorosis

Why are my Dawn redwood needles turning yellow?