Notice your Dappled Willow’s leaves turning brown, and it’s definitely not autumn yet? If so, it’s time to play garden detective. When those pretty leaves start browning, your plant is sending out a little SOS that something’s off with its health. Here’s how to track down the culprit.
Common causes for brown leaves include:
- Pests
- Fungal infections
- Poor location
- Lack of nutrients or water
What’s causing those brown leaves?
First off, your Dappled Willow might be dealing with a pest infestation. The most notorious troublemaker is the Goat Moth. These guys love to munch on the wood of weakened trees and lay their larvae right on the plant. If you take a closer look at the leaves and spot larvae, or see tell-tale bite marks on the wood, you’ve found your culprit. In this case, a radical pruning session is usually the only way to save it. You can read more right here on how to handle these pests.
Another common issue is a fungal infection. This usually starts with brown leaves spreading across the entire tree. Soon after, the willow will start dropping its leaves and the shoots will begin to wilt. If fungus has moved in, you’ll need to perform a hard prune. Cut the plant back to just a few inches above the ground; it sounds scary, but it gives the willow the best chance to bounce back with healthy new growth.
Don’t forget to check the environment
While Dappled Willows are generally low-maintenance, the wrong location can still cause headaches. If your plant isn’t getting enough water at its current spot, those leaves will dry out and turn brown fast. Make sure your willow is getting a regular drink and the TLC it deserves.
The soil doesn’t need to be incredibly deep, but it definitely needs to be loose. If you notice the ground is rock-hard and water isn’t reaching the roots, you’ve got to take action. Try loosening the soil and adding a layer of mulch to help retain moisture. If the spot just isn’t working out, you can always try transplanting your willow to a happier home.
