Will yellow leaves turn green again?

Usually, no. Once a leaf has lost its chlorophyll, it will not recover, but correcting the soil will stop the problem from spreading to new leaves.

Can I use regular garden fertilizer?

Avoid standard fertilizers, as they often contain lime which raises pH. Always use a formula labeled for acid loving plants.

Pontic rhododendron: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Test your soil pH to ensure it is between 4.5 and 6.0.
Inspect the undersides of yellowing leaves for tiny insects.
Check if the yellowing is concentrated on new growth or old leaves.

Likely causes

Iron deficiency
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow while the veins remain a bright green color. This happens when the soil pH is too high for the plant to take up iron.
What to do: Apply an acidifying fertilizer specifically for rhododendrons. You can also add elemental sulfur to the soil to lower the pH over several months.
Rhododendron leafhopper
Possible
How to tell: You will see small yellow spots or stippling on the upper leaf surface. Look closely at the undersides for tiny, pale insects.
What to do: Spray the foliage with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Make sure to coat the undersides of the leaves thoroughly every 7 days until the pests are gone.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your pontic rhododendron

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 the oldest, innermost leaves to yellow and drop in late spring. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly across the entire plant.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain acidic soil with pine bark mulch and avoid overwatering, which can wash away essential nutrients.

Pontic rhododendron: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your pontic rhododendron 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?: Usually, no. Once a leaf has lost its chlorophyll, it will not recover, but correcting the soil will stop the problem from spreading to new leaves.
Can I use regular garden fertilizer?: Avoid standard fertilizers, as they often contain lime which raises pH. Always use a formula labeled for acid loving plants.

Guides to these causes

Chlorosis

Why are my Pontic rhododendron leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your pontic rhododendron?