Pocket Botanist
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Check these first
- Feel the soil around the base to see if it is dry.
- Check if the yellowing is uniform or just on older leaves.
- Look for signs of pests that might be draining the plant.
Likely causes
Drought stress
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves will turn yellow and eventually crispy if the soil stays dry for too long. This is common during hot, dry spells when the tree cannot get enough water.
What to do: Water the tree deeply every 2 to 5 days to keep the root zone consistently damp. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to help hold moisture in the soil.
Nutrient deficiency
PossibleHow to tell: This is less common for this plant, and usually happens when the soil is depleted of nitrogen or iron. You will see a general yellowing across the leaves while the veins remain green.
What to do: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring to boost nutrient levels. If the soil is very alkaline, consider adding organic matter to improve nutrient availability.
Find out what's wrong with your grey sallow
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.
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When to worry
It is normal for a few older leaves to yellow and drop in late summer. You should worry if the yellowing is widespread or happening on new growth.
Stopping it coming back
Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep the soil damp, especially during the summer months. Mulching helps keep the soil environment stable.
Grey sallow: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your grey sallow 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
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Questions people ask
- Is it okay if the bottom leaves turn yellow?
- Yes, it is normal for the oldest leaves to yellow and fall off as the tree grows. This is just the tree's way of shedding old foliage.
- How much should I water?
- The soil should feel damp to the touch at all times. If the top inch feels dry, it is time to give it a good soak.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Grey sallow
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.