Chlorosis: The yellowing of leaves due to a lack of chlorophyll, often caused by nutrient deficiencies, poor drainage, or disease.
Chlorosis is a plant’s way of showing it’s not feeling its best. Healthy leaves are green because of chlorophyll, the pigment that helps plants make food through photosynthesis. When a plant has chlorosis, its leaves start to turn yellow, sometimes with the veins remaining green. This means the plant isn’t producing enough chlorophyll, and therefore, it doesn’t have enough food for itself.
In a home garden, chlorosis can be a common problem. It can show that your soil lacks essential nutrients like iron or nitrogen. It could also mean your plants’ roots sit in waterlogged soil, preventing them from properly absorbing nutrients. Sometimes, chlorosis can even be a symptom of a disease. If you notice your plant’s leaves turning yellow, investigating the cause is a good idea. A soil test can help identify nutrient deficiencies, and ensuring proper drainage can prevent root problems. Addressing the underlying cause of chlorosis is crucial for restoring your plants to their vibrant green.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as health, wellness or nutrition advice. Please see our full disclaimers here.
« Back to Glossary Index