Yellowing leaves on hydrangeas detract from the balanced appearance of these big-leafed shrubs. In colors varying from medium to dark green, hydrangea foliage provides a contrasting backdrop for dramatic blooms.
Different patterns and degrees of chlorosis in the leaves offer clues for finding and correcting the problem. If your foliage is losing its luster, consider these seven potential causes for hydrangea leaves turning yellow and tips for returning your plant to its best look and condition.
As a hydrangea owner, seeing those big beautiful leaves turn from lush green to sickly yellow can be disheartening But don’t despair! Yellow leaves are a common issue, and with the right troubleshooting, you can get your hydrangea back to its former glory
In this comprehensive guide we’ll walk through the various causes of yellow hydrangea leaves and provide actionable solutions to restore the health and vibrancy of your plant.
Why Are My Hydrangea Leaves Turning Yellow?
There are several common reasons why hydrangea leaves turn yellow
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Improper watering – Both overwatering and underwatering can cause yellow leaves. Hydrangeas like consistently moist (but not soggy) soil.
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Poor drainage – Hydrangeas can’t tolerate wet feet. Ensure the soil drains well to prevent root rot.
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Excessive sunlight – Most hydrangeas prefer morning sun + afternoon shade. Too much direct sun scorches leaves.
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Nutrient deficiencies – Lack of nitrogen, iron, magnesium, and sulfur leads to yellowing.
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Soil pH – Hydrangeas thrive in mildly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5). Improper pH prevents nutrient uptake.
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Diseases & pests – Fungal diseases, viruses, and pests like spider mites cause yellowing/spotting.
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Cold damage – Early fall frosts can damage leaves, leading to yellowing.
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Root damage – Disturbed roots from transplanting/pruning stress the plant and yellow leaves.
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Old age – Lower leaves naturally yellow and drop as part of the aging process.
Solutions for Hydrangea Leaves Turning Yellow
Now that we’ve covered the reasons behind yellow hydrangea leaves, let’s discuss how to fix the problem and restore your plant to health:
For watering issues
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Check soil moisture before watering. Aim to keep soil consistently damp but not soggy.
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Improve drainage by amending soil with compost or sand.
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Water deeply 2-3 times per week rather than frequent light watering.
For too much sun
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Move plant to a location with morning sun + afternoon shade.
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Add a shade cloth over the plant during the hottest part of the day.
For nutrient deficiencies
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Test soil pH and amend accordingly (target 5.5-6.5 for hydrangeas).
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Apply a balanced fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
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Use iron supplements or acidic fertilizers if leaves are yellow with green veins (iron chlorosis).
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Add Epsom salts or dolomitic lime for magnesium deficiency.
For diseases and pests
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Prune out affected leaves/stems. Remove debris and fallen leaves.
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Use fungicides/insecticides labeled for hydrangea diseases and pests.
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Improve air circulation around plants.
For cold damage
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Provide winter protection such as burlap wrap for outdoor hydrangeas.
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Move containers to a sheltered location over winter.
For root damage
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Prune away dead roots, replant at proper depth.
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Water thoroughly after transplanting and provide good follow-up care.
Preventing Yellow Hydrangea Leaves
While dealing with yellow leaves may be unavoidable at times, prevention is the best cure. Here are some tips to keep your hydrangea leaves green and healthy:
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Choose disease-resistant hydrangea varieties when possible.
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Test and amend soil to reach the proper pH before planting.
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Apply mulch around hydrangeas to regulate soil temperature and moisture.
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Provide supplemental water during periods of drought/heat stress.
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Stake tall hydrangeas to prevent damage from wind/storms.
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Feed with a balanced, acid-forming fertilizer in early spring and summer.
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Inspect regularly for pests and diseases. Address issues promptly.
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Avoid excessive pruning that can stress the plant.
Don’t Despair Over Yellow Leaves!
While an outbreak of yellow leaves may be discouraging, take heart knowing this is a common issue that can be corrected. With proper troubleshooting and care, your beloved hydrangeas can regain their lush green foliage. Be sure to tackle problems at the first sign of yellowing to prevent lasting damage. With a little TLC, you’ll have those hydrangea blues turning green once again!
Underwatering
Underwatering also causes leaves to turn yellow with brown, crispy edges. Dont try to correct the problem by watering excessively. It can make the situation worse.
Irrigate deeply until the soil surface is slightly moist. You may need to increase frequency. Remember that a deep watering two to three times a week is generally sufficient. Add mulch to help retain soil moisture.
Insufficient Light
When the plant lacks sufficient sunlight, photosynthesis slows and interrupts the production of chlorophyll, the nutrient that keeps foliage green.
Why Are My Hydrangea Leaves Turning Yellow?
FAQ
How do you fix yellowing hydrangea leaves?
Correct Nutrient Deficiencies: Use a balanced fertilizer and, if needed, chelated iron supplements for iron chlorosis. Test Soil pH: Hydrangeas thrive in slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5 to 6.5). Adjust with sulfur or lime as needed. Treat Pests: Inspect for aphids or spider mites and use insecticidal soap if necessary.
What does overwatered hydrangea look like?
Yellowing Leaves: Excessive water can cause chlorosis, where leaves turn yellow due to nutrient deficiencies, as the roots cannot absorb essential nutrients effectively. Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, where the roots become dark, mushy, and emit a foul odor.
How often should I water hydrangeas?
Water at a rate of 1 inch per week throughout the growing season. Deeply water 3 times a week to encourage root growth. Bigleaf and smooth hydrangeas require more water, but all varieties benefit from consistent moisture. Use a soaker hose to water deeply and keep moisture off the flowers and leaves.
How do you fix yellow leaves from overwatering?
When plants sit in waterlogged soil, their roots can’t get enough oxygen, leading to root damage which manifests as yellow leaves. You can correct this by letting the soil dry out more in between waterings.
How do you know if a hydrangea has iron deficiency?
A hydrangea with iron deficiency shows yellowing leaves at the leaf blades, but the veins remain green and prominent. The discoloration can be seen on new leaves, spreading slowly to the older leaves. In severe situations, new hydrangea leaves will appear white, die and drop off the plant.
Do hydrangeas turn yellow?
Hydrangeas are stunning. With its dome-shaped cluster of flowers with pastel-colored petals, there’s no denying this plant is quite a beauty. It also has thick green foliage that turns a lovely red color during the autumn. With that said, it’s uncommon for hydrangea leaves to turn yellow.
How do you fix yellow hydrangea leaves?
To fix yellow hydrangea leaves with soggy soil, delay watering to give it a chance to dry out. Adjust soil pH to correct levels. Spray leaves with seaweed extract or work epsom salt solution into soil around the hydrangea. Find out why your hydrangea leaves are turning yellow and what you can do to correct the problem.
Why are my hydrangea leaves turning green?
But remember, it won’t be an instant fix. And the yellow leaves won’t turn green again. Only the new leaves will be healthy and green. Another issue for hydrangeas is not getting enough nitrogen. They need nitrogen for big, green leaves. Often, this happens when the soil isn’t rich enough.
Why are my hydrangea leaves turning brown?
Remember, Hydrangeas are only frost tolerant in fall and winter as they go dormant, and temperature alterations can cause yellowing leaves and brown spots. If it gets too warm, the edges of the leaves become yellow, turn brown and develop a crispy texture. How to Fix?
How to prevent yellowing of hydrangea plants?
It is necessary to provide quality growing conditions to prevent the yellowing of your hydrangea plant. Here are some actionable tips to prevent the problem. Use settled water at room temperature for irrigation. Spray with 1% Bordeaux solution once a month. This will prevent fungal diseases and attacks by harmful insects.