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Based on 20,000+ analyzed cases
Iron Chlorosis on rose
What's Happening
Leaves turn pale yellow or white while the veins remain distinctly dark green. This is an iron deficiency, usually caused not by a lack of iron in the soil, but by high soil pH (alkaline) or waterlogged cold roots, which lock up the iron making it unavailable to the plant.
How to Fix It
- 1
Apply a chelated iron foliar spray for immediate (but temporary) green-up
- 2
Test soil pH; roses prefer a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 6.5
- 3
If soil is too alkaline, lower the pH by adding agricultural sulfur or iron sulfate to the soil
- 4
Improve soil drainage if the bed stays too wet
How to Prevent It
Regularly amend the soil with acidic organic matter like pine needles, compost, or peat moss. Avoid overwatering.
Related Problems
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes iron chlorosis on my plant?
Leaves turn pale yellow or white while the veins remain distinctly dark green. This is an iron deficiency, usually caused not by a lack of iron in the soil, but by high soil pH (alkaline) or waterlogg...
How do I fix iron chlorosis?
Apply a chelated iron foliar spray for immediate (but temporary) green-up. Test soil pH; roses prefer a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
How do I prevent iron chlorosis from happening again?
Regularly amend the soil with acidic organic matter like pine needles, compost, or peat moss. Avoid overwatering.