Image: Blueberry Plant with Chlorotic Leaves in Garden Soil

This high-resolution landscape photograph captures a blueberry plant exhibiting clear signs of chlorosis, a condition often caused by nutrient deficiencies such as iron or magnesium. The image focuses on the upper portion of the plant, where the leaves display a striking yellow coloration with prominent green veins. These veins form a branching network radiating from the central vein to the leaf margins, creating a vivid contrast that highlights the chlorotic symptoms. The leaves are elliptical with pointed tips and vary in shade from pale yellow to deeper golden hues. Some leaves show additional signs of stress, including browning edges and small dark necrotic spots, suggesting prolonged nutrient imbalance or environmental stress.

The stems of the plant are slender and reddish-brown, with a slightly woody texture and visible nodes where leaves and fruit are attached. A small cluster of ripe blueberries hangs from one of these stems in the foreground. The berries are deep blue with a matte, dusty surface typical of mature fruit, and each has a small, dried calyx at its crown. They are plump and round, with the largest berry positioned slightly below and to the left of the others, creating a natural focal point in the composition.

The ground beneath the plant consists of dark, rich soil interspersed with small rocks and organic debris. Patches of green grass and other low-growing vegetation are visible in the background, which is softly blurred to emphasize the plant in the foreground. The lighting is natural and diffused, likely from an overcast sky or shaded garden environment, which helps to evenly illuminate the leaves and berries without harsh shadows.

The composition is well-balanced, with the cluster of blueberries positioned slightly off-center to the right, drawing the viewer’s eye while allowing the chlorotic leaves to dominate the visual narrative. The image serves as both a botanical study and a visual representation of plant health issues, making it suitable for educational, horticultural, or agricultural contexts. The shallow depth of field and high resolution ensure that the details of the leaf texture, vein patterns, and berry surface are clearly visible, enhancing the image’s utility for diagnostic or illustrative purposes.

The image is related to: Growing Blueberries: A Guide to Sweet Success in Your Garden