Photinia
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Why Are My Photinia Leaves Yellow? Fertiliser Deficiency & Care Guide
Yellowing leaves are a common issue with Photinia hedges, often worrying gardeners. While pests and water stress can play a role, most cases are linked to fertiliser deficiencies. Photinia is a fast grower and needs regular feeding to maintain dense green and red foliage.
Main Nutrient Deficiencies
The most frequent causes of yellow leaves in Photinia include:
- Nitrogen deficiency: Older leaves turn pale yellow, and new shoots are weak.
- Magnesium deficiency: Leaves show pale stripes between green veins, especially in sandy soils.
- Potassium deficiency: Yellowing begins at leaf edges, which later turn brown and brittle.
Because Photinia grows quickly, these problems can appear within weeks if feeding is inconsistent.
How to Restore Healthy Green Growth
Yellow leaves cannot turn green again, but correcting fertiliser issues ensures new growth emerges strong and colourful. The key is applying a balanced fertiliser that covers all major nutrients, not just a single element.
- Apply liquid NPK: Every 4โ6 weeks during the growing season for steady feeding.
- Water consistently: Fertiliser uptake fails if roots are dry.
- Prune lightly: Trim yellowed sections and feed to stimulate fresh red shoots.
In sandy or poor soils, extra magnesium may be needed to prevent leaf striping. However, a complete fertiliser program usually keeps deficiencies in check.
Preventing Future Yellowing
The best prevention is consistency. Photinia hedges cannot maintain strong foliage without regular fertiliser. Skipping feeds or relying on poor soil almost always leads to nutrient stress.
The most effective choice is Complete Grow All Purpose Liquid NPK 20-20-20. It delivers balanced nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium with added micronutrients, ensuring leaves stay green and red flushes are vibrant after pruning.
FAQ โ Yellow Leaves on Photinia
Why are my Photinia leaves turning yellow? Most often a fertiliser deficiency, especially nitrogen or magnesium.
Can yellow leaves turn green again? No, but new leaves will be healthy once fertiliser is applied.
Do pests cause yellow leaves? Occasionally, but fertiliser problems are far more common.
How often should I fertilise to prevent yellowing? Every 4โ6 weeks during spring, summer, and early autumn.
What fertiliser should I use? A complete liquid NPK like Complete Grow 20-20-20 prevents nutrient stress and restores healthy foliage.
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What is NPK 20-20-20 Fertiliser?
