Yellowing Transplanted Pines in High Desert: Iron Chlorosis

10–12 ft pines transplanted 6–8 months ago in northern Nevada high desert show yellowing. Asks about watering signs and schedule.

Likely Iron Chlorosis, Not Water

High desert soils often exceed pH 6.5 (alkaline), locking up iron. Yellowing (chlorosis) = iron deficiency, not drought.

Treatment Options

• Soil test first—confirms pH and deficits.
• Sulfur-iron fertilizer to lower pH and supply iron.
• Trunk injection of iron salts (fastest).
• Foliar spray ferrous sulfate (temporary).

Watering

Deep weekly soaks (1″ in pan test) better than daily light watering. Mulch 3″.

Nursery can recommend products for your tree size.