Why Are My Viburnum Leaves Yellow?

Yellow leaves are one of the most common issues with Viburnum hedges. While pests, overwatering, or poor drainage can contribute, the main cause is almost always fertiliser deficiency. Viburnum is a fast-growing hedge that quickly exhausts soil nutrients, leading to pale or yellow foliage if not fed consistently.

Common Nutrient Deficiencies

Yellow leaves usually indicate one of the following fertiliser-related problems:

Nitrogen deficiency: Older leaves fade to pale yellow while new growth slows.
Magnesium deficiency: Leaves show yellowing between green veins, especially in sandy soils.
Potassium deficiency: Yellowing begins at leaf tips and edges, eventually turning brown and brittle.

These problems are most common in hedges that have not been fertilised for months or are planted in poor soil that cannot hold nutrients well.

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How to Restore Healthy Foliage

Once Viburnum leaves turn yellow, they cannot recover. The solution is to feed the plant so that new growth emerges healthy and green. A balanced fertiliser program supplies all essential nutrients and prevents further decline.

The best option is Complete Grow All Purpose Liquid NPK 20-20-20, which provides nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and added micronutrients. This balance quickly addresses nutrient stress and restores steady growth.

Apply fertiliser every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer.
Prune lightly to remove the worst-affected yellow foliage.
Water well after feeding to help nutrients move into the root zone.

For sandy soils, feeding may need to be more frequent, as nutrients leach out faster. In heavy clay soils, ensure drainage is adequate to avoid nutrient lock-up.

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Preventing Yellow Leaves in Viburnum

The key to preventing yellow leaves is consistency. Viburnum hedges cannot maintain dense green foliage without regular feeding. Skipping fertiliser applications almost always results in deficiencies within weeks, especially during hot, fast-growing periods.

Using Complete Grow All Purpose Liquid NPK 20-20-20 as part of a routine ensures steady nitrogen for leaves, potassium for foliage strength, and micronutrients for long-term colour. This approach keeps hedges vibrant and resilient year-round.

FAQ – Yellow Leaves on Viburnum

Why are my Viburnum leaves turning yellow? Usually due to fertiliser deficiencies such as nitrogen, magnesium, or potassium.

Can yellow leaves turn green again? No, but new growth will be healthy once fertiliser is applied.

Will watering fix yellow leaves? Not if nutrients are lacking. Water helps, but fertiliser is required to restore colour.

How often should I fertilise Viburnum? Every 4–6 weeks during the growing season, and after pruning.

What is the best fertiliser to stop yellowing? A balanced liquid NPK like Complete Grow 20-20-20 prevents deficiencies and supports dense green foliage.