Daisy flowers are hardy perennials that brighten cottage gardens and classic perennial borders with their sunny blooms all summer long. They’re easy to grow and adaptable to a variety of soil conditions, but they do better with rich, well-draining soil and regular inspection for pests and disease. If your daisies’ leaves turn yellow, this is a sign of a problem that can be corrected with simple troubleshooting and care.
Chlorosis, the condition that causes leaves to turn yellow, happens when something interferes with the plant’s ability to produce chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for leaf green. Several problems can interfere with chlorophyll production, including water issues (overwatering or underwatering), soil pH, and nutrients deficiencies.
Overwatering is the most common cause of yellow leaves in plants. When the soil is too wet, roots suffocate and stop taking up water and nutrients. Overwatering also prevents the absorption of certain important minerals, such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and potassium. These mineral deficiency symptoms usually show up in the oldest leaves first, as the yellow moves from leaf centers outward.
Feel the soil with your fingers to see if it’s too wet or too dry. If your daisies’ leaves are turning yellow because of overwatering, reduce the amount of water you give them to avoid root rot. Alternatively, add soil amendments that improve drainage and aeration. Soil testing can reveal nutrient deficiencies; treat these with a balanced fertilizer and keep an eye on your soil’s pH, as well.