Pocket Botanist
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Check these first
- Feel the soil depth for moisture.
- Check the drainage holes for blockages.
- Look for signs of pests on the yellowing leaves.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves turn yellow and may feel soft or limp. The soil stays wet for a long time after you water.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 3 inches of soil dry out completely. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and is not sitting in a saucer of standing water.
Nutrient Deficiency
PossibleHow to tell: Older leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green, often indicating a lack of iron or magnesium. This happens if the soil pH is off or the plant has been in the same pot for years.
What to do: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer designed for native trees during the spring. If the soil is very old, consider repotting into fresh, well draining potting mix.
When to worry
It is normal for a few older, inner leaves to yellow and drop as the tree grows. Be concerned if the yellowing is widespread or happens on new growth.
Stopping it coming back
Stick to your watering schedule of every 7 to 14 days, and always check the soil moisture before adding more water.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your pohutukawa.
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.
Questions people ask
- Should I cut off the yellow leaves?
- Yes, you can snip them off to keep the tree looking tidy. They will not turn green again.
- Does my tree need more sun to stop the yellowing?
- Pohutukawa need full sun to thrive. If your tree is in deep shade, it will struggle and may develop yellow leaves.
More problems with Pohutukawa
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.