Why Do Murraya Leaves Go Yellow?

Murraya paniculata, also known as orange jasmine or mock orange, is usually a hardy evergreen hedge. But one of the most common problems gardeners face is yellowing leaves. Yellow leaves are a signal that the plant is under stress. The causes can be nutritional, environmental, or pest-related.

Main Reasons for Yellow Leaves

Nitrogen deficiency: Old leaves turn pale yellow, while new growth remains lighter green.
Iron deficiency: New leaves appear yellow with green veins, often linked to alkaline soil.
Water stress: Both overwatering (root rot) and underwatering cause yellowing.
Poor soil drainage: Roots suffocate, leaves yellow, and the hedge weakens.
Pests: Scale insects and aphids suck sap, causing leaves to fade and drop.

Murraya leaves turn yellow mainly due to nutrient deficiencies, watering issues, or pests. Fix by fertilising with a balanced NPK, watering correctly, and checking soil drainage.

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How to Fix Yellow Leaves on Murraya Hedges

The good news is that yellow leaves on Murraya hedges can usually be corrected with consistent care. Here’s how:

Fertilising

Apply a balanced NPK fertiliser with trace elements every 6–8 weeks in spring and summer.
For quick recovery, use liquid fertiliser that acts fast through the roots.
For iron deficiency (yellow leaves with green veins), apply a fertiliser with added iron and magnesium.

Watering

Check soil moisture before watering — only water when the topsoil feels dry.
Deep soak once or twice a week in summer rather than light, frequent watering.
Ensure pots or garden beds drain freely to avoid root rot.

Pruning & Care

Trim lightly to encourage new shoots if growth is sparse.
Remove damaged yellow leaves to reduce stress on the plant.
Mulch around the base to stabilise soil temperature and retain moisture.

👉 For full feeding advice, see our Murraya fertiliser guide.

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FAQs: Yellowing Leaves on Murraya

Q: Why are the new leaves on my Murraya yellow with green veins?
A: This is usually iron deficiency, common in alkaline soils. Fix with a balanced fertiliser containing iron and magnesium.

Q: Why are the older leaves on my hedge turning yellow?
A: Likely a nitrogen deficiency. Apply a balanced NPK fertiliser to restore green growth.

Q: Can overwatering cause yellow leaves?
A: Yes. Too much water leads to root rot and yellowing. Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency.

Q: Should I remove yellow leaves from Murraya?
A: Yes. Trim off damaged or yellowing leaves to reduce plant stress and encourage new growth.

Q: What fertiliser stops yellow leaves?
A: Use CompleteGrow All Purpose NPK 20-20-20. It includes essential nutrients and trace elements to correct deficiencies and restore healthy green foliage.

Final Tip

Most cases of yellow Murraya leaves come down to feeding and watering consistency. Regular pruning, good drainage, and feeding with CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 will restore lush, dark green foliage and a thriving hedge.