Every summer, we see it. A street full of lush, green trees… except for one or two that look pale, sickly, and out of place.
Those trees aren’t just tired from the heat — they’re likely suffering from Iron Chlorosis, a common (but often misunderstood) condition that weakens trees from the inside out.
This month, our Martz Bros Tree Doctors are actively out in neighborhoods across the Kansas City area, tagging trees that show visible signs of this issue. If you’ve seen a yellow tag on your tree — or if something just doesn’t look quite right — here’s what you need to know.
What Is Iron Chlorosis, Exactly?
Iron Chlorosis (IC) is a nutrient deficiency — but it’s not always about how much iron is in the soil.
Instead, it’s about the tree’s ability to absorb that iron, especially in areas with alkaline or compacted soils like we have here in Johnson County and across much of eastern Kansas.
When trees can’t take in the iron they need, their leaves start to lose their rich green color. Over time, this stress adds up — weakening the tree’s immune system and making it more vulnerable to other threats.
The Visual Clues: What to Look For
- Pin Oak
- Silver Maple
- River Birch
- Sweetgum
- And a few other KC favorites
- Premature leaf drop
- Stunted growth
- Branch dieback (especially in the crown)
- Overall thinning of the tree canopy
If it feels like your tree is fading in real time — it might be.
What Can Be Done? (And Why Now Matters)
Here’s the good news: Iron Chlorosis is treatable — especially if caught early.
Our certified arborists use targeted trunk injections to deliver chelated iron and micronutrients directly into the tree’s vascular system. This bypasses the soil altogether and gives the tree immediate access to what it needs.
In many cases, homeowners start to see improved color and canopy density within a few weeks. However, like many tree health issues, it’s rarely a one-and-done solution. Depending on severity and tree species, repeat annual treatments may be needed to stabilize the tree long-term.
And compared to the cost — and emotional toll — of removing a mature tree? It’s a small price to pay.
Why You're Seeing Tags in Your Neighborhood
If you’ve noticed a Martz Bros yellow tag on a tree in your yard (or your neighbor’s), that means one of our Tree Doctors saw visible signs of IC and marked it for attention.
We’re not just pointing out problems — we’re hoping to spark action. These tags are part of our effort to help homeowners preserve their trees before it’s too late.
We know trees aren’t just landscaping — they’re shade providers, energy savers, bird homes, and legacy plants. They’re part of what makes your street feel like your street.
What to Do If You’re Concerned
Call us. Send a photo. Ask questions.
We’re happy to take a closer look and let you know what’s going on — no pressure, no pushy sales.
Sometimes we confirm Iron Chlorosis.
Other times, it’s another issue entirely — compacted soil, insect damage, even improper watering.
Either way, you’ll walk away with answers and a plan.
Final Thought: A Healthier Tree = A Healthier Neighborhood
We believe healthy trees make for stronger neighborhoods — literally and figuratively.
They boost curb appeal, improve property values, and keep our communities cooler and more inviting.
So whether it’s your tree or your neighbor’s, this is your last call to act while the symptoms are still manageable.
Got a tag? Noticed yellowing? Just have a hunch something’s wrong?
Give us a call — or tell your neighbor.
Because a small step now can help save something big.
