Can I trim off the brown tips?

Yes, you can trim them for aesthetics. Use clean, sharp scissors and cut just outside the green tissue.

Does tap water cause brown tips?

Sometimes, if your water has high mineral content. If you suspect this, try using collected rainwater.

Why are the tips of my Tree of heaven leaves turning brown?

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is dry and crumbly.
Check if the browning is occurring on all leaves or just the edges.
Review your recent watering frequency.

Likely causes

Drought Stress
Most likely
How to tell: The soil is bone dry and the brown tips feel crispy to the touch. This happens during long dry spells.
What to do: Water the tree deeply, ensuring the moisture reaches the root zone. Apply a 2 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain soil moisture.
Salt Accumulation
Possible
How to tell: Brown tips appear even when the soil feels moist. This often happens if you use heavy fertilizers.
What to do: Flush the soil with plenty of water to wash away excess salts. Avoid over fertilizing in the future.

When to worry

Worry if the browning moves inward toward the leaf center. Minor tip browning is common during peak summer heat.

Stopping it coming back

Mulch the base of the tree to keep roots cool and hydrated.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your tree of heaven.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Can I trim off the brown tips?: Yes, you can trim them for aesthetics. Use clean, sharp scissors and cut just outside the green tissue.
Does tap water cause brown tips?: Sometimes, if your water has high mineral content. If you suspect this, try using collected rainwater.