Is it normal for my madrone to lose leaves in summer?

Yes, some minor leaf drop is common as the tree sheds older foliage. If the drop is heavy, check your watering schedule.

Should I fertilize a tree that is losing leaves?

No, do not fertilize a stressed tree. Wait until the tree is healthy and growing again.

Pacific madrone: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil 4 inches deep to see if it is waterlogged.
Inspect the trunk base for signs of rot or standing water.
Check the underside of leaves for any signs of pests.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays soggy for days after watering and the leaves turn yellow before falling off. You might notice a sour smell near the base of the tree.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and check if the soil is heavy clay. If the area does not drain well, you may need to divert water away from the root zone. Do not add mulch directly against the trunk.
Summer Drought Stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves curl and turn brittle before dropping during the hottest months. The tree looks generally wilted even in the morning.
What to do: Provide a deep, slow soak once every 14 days during the first 3 years of growth. Once established, the tree prefers to stay dry, so avoid frequent shallow watering.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your pacific madrone

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

It is normal for the tree to drop some older leaves in late summer. You should worry if the leaf drop is sudden and involves new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure the tree is planted in well draining soil and avoid overwatering once it is established.

Pacific madrone: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your pacific madrone 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

Is it normal for my madrone to lose leaves in summer?: Yes, some minor leaf drop is common as the tree sheds older foliage. If the drop is heavy, check your watering schedule.
Should I fertilize a tree that is losing leaves?: No, do not fertilize a stressed tree. Wait until the tree is healthy and growing again.

Why is my Pacific madrone losing its leaves?