Knowledgebase

yellow leaves on tree right now #868098

Asked May 12, 2024, 4:56 PM EDT

I recently bought a house in Greeley with a tree centered in the smallish front lawn. It's in a 1960s neighborhood, so a very established tree. The tree has started leafing out and the leaves are evenly yellow all over. Based on the shape of the leaves, I think it's some type of locust. I have a few questions: 1) I'm seeing online that it may have a nutrient deficiency &/or "pests" if it's yellow...but before I assume that, do some varieties of locust either have yellow leaves all growing season, or start out yellow and change to green even if they're healthy? 2) The lawn around it is evenly green without having been fertilized or receiving supplemental water yet this season, but it's starting to look a little thirsty and in need of food. Is it safe to fertilize and water my lawn while it's yellow, or should we do a soil test first? I'm filling this out at work and didn't think to bring a photo to attach, but will reply with one if you think it will be helpful. Thank you!

Weld County Colorado

Expert Response

Janelle,
Thank you for contacting Ask Extension with your gardening issue. My name is Kat, and I will be helping you today.

Some pictures of the tree would be helpful to identify the tree.

Could you please send a picture of the full tree, as well as some close ups of the leaves and bark to help with identification?

Thanks,

Kat

Weld County Colorado Master Gardeners Replied May 13, 2024, 3:14 PM EDT
Hi Again,

I've attached photos of the tree I mentioned above...

Thank you!

On Mon, May 13, 2024 at 1:14 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied May 14, 2024, 5:24 PM EDT

Janelle,

Thank you for the pictures. With them I’ve identified your tree as a honey locust.

They can have yellow leaves in spring, that turn green as they mature through the season.

Honey locusts are recommended trees for the Front Range. They are an excellent landscape addition if managed properly.

The link below from the USDA describes honey locusts in more detail.

https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/factsheet/pdf/fs_gltr.pdf

Continue to monitor the tree, pruning if appropriate.

Since it is planted in your lawn, if you are watering your lawn regularly, it should be getting adequate water in the spring and summer.

It is also essential to winter water trees here in Colorado. The attached fact sheet discusses this process.

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/fall-and-winter-watering-7-211/

Please review these materials and continue to monitor your tree.

If you should have further questions on this or any other issue, please don’t hesitate to contact Ask Extension again.

Thanks,

Kat



Weld County Colorado Master Gardeners Replied May 16, 2024, 9:18 AM EDT
Thanks very much! I appreciate your time and knowledge.
On Thu, May 16, 2024 at 7:18 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied May 16, 2024, 12:34 PM EDT

Janelle,

In reviewing your question(s), we have more information to offer.

Your question about yellow varieties of honeylocust is a valid one, and yes, there is a very popular cultivar called Sunburst. It will remain yellow all year – look around in other landscapes as they really stand out this time of year! It may also be blooming right now – very tiny but fragrant clusters of flowers, often not noticeable.


Your other question about fertilizing and watering the lawn – yes, it’s time!


Enjoy the season,


Karin


Weld County Colorado Master Gardeners Replied May 22, 2024, 1:02 PM EDT

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