Lemon trees are a popular choice for many plants enthusiasts all across the world—their sour, acidic fruits and pleasing aroma make them popular additions to any garden. But why are their leaves suddenly turning yellow? There are a few possible explanations for this.
Firstly, too much water may be the cause. If a lemon tree is allowed to sit in water for too long, it can cause the leaves to curl and change to a yellowish tinge. An adequate water supply is vital to a lemon tree’s development, but you must be careful not to overwater it as this will have drastic effects.
Secondly, too much sun can be another cause. It is important to ensure that a lemon tree receives adequate amounts of sunshine to thrive, however, too much sun can cause the leave to turn yellow and perhaps even burn. It is important to get the balance right.
Thirdly, magnesium deficiency can also be a factor. Magnesium helps a lemon tree to absorb nutrients from the soil, and if there are not enough of these nutrients, lemon trees can display symptoms such as yellowing of the leaves.
Fourthly, a lack of nitrogen in the soil can also be a possible factor. Nitrogen is essential for the growth of a lemon tree, and if it is deficient then this can show itself through the yellowing of the leaves.
Lastly, inappropriate fertilization can be a major cause. When fertilizing a lemon tree, it is important to ensure that the fertilizer is not too strong or that it contains too much of one mineral as this can cause the yellowing of the leaves.
Lack of Potassium
Another possible cause of yellowing leaves on lemon trees can be a lack of potassium. Potassium helps a lemon tree to absorb nutrients from the soil, and if there is not enough available, then this can show itself through yellowing of the leaves. It is important to ensure that there is an adequate supply of potassium in the soil.
Insect Infestation
Insect infestation can also cause the leaves of a lemon tree to turn yellow. Different species of insects can infest a lemon tree, and the most common are caterpillars and mealybugs. If a lemon tree is infested then this can cause the leaves to discolor and become prone to diseases.
Incorrect Pruning
Incorrect pruning is another potential culprit of yellowing leaves in lemon trees. If a lemon tree is pruned in a way that it is unable to receive an adequate supply of sunlight, or if it is cut back too drastically, this can affect its growth and cause the leaves to discolor.
Fungal Diseases
Finally, lemon trees can fall victim to certain fungal diseases. Fungi can spread rapidly through a lemon tree and if left unchecked, it can cause the leaves to turn yellow. It is important to take appropriate measures to treat these fungal diseases and to take preventative measures as well.
