High Altitude Iron Management: Solving the Chlorosis Crisis in Mountain Aspens
Published January 20, 2026
In the Roaring Fork and Vail Valleys many homeowners are distressed to see their iconic Aspen trees turning a sickly yellow while the leaf veins remain green. This condition known as iron chlorosis is not usually caused by a lack of iron in the soil but by the high alkalinity of our mountain earth which chemically locks the iron away from the root system. For 2026 we are moving beyond standard surface fertilizers to implement advanced trunk injections and soil acidification techniques that bypass these chemical barriers to restore the vibrant green canopy that defines our mountain landscapes.
Earth-Wise Horticultural provides specialized Plant Health Care designed to solve the unique mineral deficiencies of high altitude soil.
Restoring Health to Chlorotic Mountain Trees
A successful iron management strategy requires a scientific approach to nutrient availability:
Implementing Direct Trunk Injections: By delivering professional grade iron supplements directly into the tree vascular system we ensure immediate absorption regardless of soil pH levels.
Long Term Soil Acidification: We apply specialized sulfur compounds to gradually lower the alkalinity of the root zone making the iron naturally present in the soil more available to the tree.
Evaluating Irrigation Related Leaching: Overwatering can often worsen chlorosis by leaching away the few available minerals so we calibrate your Turf Care to protect your trees.
Strategic Species Selection and Placement: For new plantings we provide Consultations to help you select tree varieties that are naturally more resistant to the alkaline conditions of the Rockies.
By addressing the root cause of iron chlorosis we help your legacy trees maintain their health and beauty for decades to come.
Is your mountain canopy losing its color? Request a Quote today and let our certified arborists perform a professional soil and tissue analysis!