Iron deficiency

Yellowing of younger leaves between the veins on iron deficient plant (J. O'Sullivan).

Death of growing points and necrosis on pale leaves (J. O'Sullivan).

Diagnostic summary

• What you see on plants

- distinctive yellow or very pale chlorosis on young leaves, with green veins contrasting sharply.

 - tips in full sunlight are most affected.

 - necrosis may spread from tips and margins of chlorotic leaves.

- vine tip and axillary buds may die.

- purple-tipped cultivars become pink.

• Frequently found on calcareous soils and  may also be expected on sandy soils, organic soils or acid soils.

• Can be induced by heavy applications of lime.

• May be associated with aother disorders which limit root function, such as manganese toxicity or calcium deficiency.

• If a pale leaf is painted with a solution of ammonium ferric sulfate, it will regreen in a few days.

Characteristics and occurrence

Symptoms

Confusion with other symptoms

Diagnostic tests

Management

References

View full fact sheet