Will my tree grow new leaves this year?

Usually not, as the tree is focusing on survival for the next season. It should recover next spring.

Should I fertilize a stressed tree?

No, wait until the tree is healthy again. Fertilizer can add more stress to a struggling root system.

Bigleaf Maple: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Test the soil moisture level.
Check the weather history for recent heat waves.
Look for signs of branch dieback.

Likely causes

Drought Stress
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves turn brown at the edges before falling off prematurely. The soil is dry and cracked.
What to do: Water the tree deeply every 7 to 14 days. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to help the soil retain moisture.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves wilt and drop during an unusually hot week. The tree looks generally healthy otherwise.
What to do: Provide extra water during heat waves. If the tree is in full sun, consider providing some afternoon shade if possible.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your bigleaf maple

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the tree drops a significant portion of its leaves in mid summer, it is a sign of severe stress. Leaf drop in late autumn is a normal part of the cycle.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule throughout the summer months.

Bigleaf Maple: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your bigleaf maple and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will my tree grow new leaves this year?: Usually not, as the tree is focusing on survival for the next season. It should recover next spring.
Should I fertilize a stressed tree?: No, wait until the tree is healthy again. Fertilizer can add more stress to a struggling root system.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Bigleaf Maple dropping leaves early?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your bigleaf maple?