nutrient deficiency

What you’re seeing

General paling/yellowing, especially of older leaves (mobile nutrients) or between the veins (interveinal chlorosis), slow growth, fewer blooms, and improved color after modest feeding.

What it is

Insufficient available nutrients in the potting mix—common in long-unfed container plants or exhausted media. Typical patterns:
- Lower leaves yellow first (nitrogen).
- Newest leaves yellow between veins (iron).
- Margins yellow/brown (magnesium/potassium).

Is action needed?

Usually yes—after ruling out root or watering problems.

How to confirm

History: No fertilization for months; old mix; frequent leaching.
Pattern: Consistent across plant; not random blotches like burn or pests.
Response: Noticeable greening over 2–3 weeks after appropriate feeding.

What to do

Check roots and watering; correct those first—damaged roots can’t uptake nutrients.
Start a gentle program: Use a balanced, complete fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength every 2–4 weeks in active growth.
Targeted supplements (e.g., iron chelate) only if the pattern specifically fits and general feeding hasn’t helped.
Repot if media is collapsed/exhausted.

Prevention tips

Feed lightly but regularly in the growing season; flush pots every few months to prevent salt buildup.
Match product to plant type (acid-loving, bloom booster, etc.).
Avoid over-feeding—more is not better.

Overwatering/poor roots can mimic deficiency.
Light issues (too dim) also cause weak, pale growth—address light as well.