Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Feel the soil 4 inches deep near the root ball.
- Check for recent heat waves or dry spells in your area.
- Inspect the trunk for any signs of physical damage or girdling.
Likely causes
Dehydration
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves look wilted and limp, especially during the hottest part of the day. The soil surface feels dry and cracked to the touch.
What to do: Give the tree a deep soak by running a hose at the base for 30 to 60 minutes. Ensure the water reaches at least 12 inches deep into the soil. Repeat this weekly during the first two years of establishment.
Transplant Shock
PossibleHow to tell: The tree was recently planted and shows signs of stress despite regular watering. The leaves may curl or droop shortly after being moved.
What to do: Keep the root zone consistently moist but not swampy. Apply a 3 inch layer of wood mulch around the base to keep the roots cool. Avoid adding fertilizer until the tree shows signs of new growth.
Find out what's wrong with your london planetree
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.
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When to worry
Worry if the drooping persists after a thorough watering or if the leaves start turning brown and brittle. It is normal for young trees to show slight wilting on very hot afternoons.
Stopping it coming back
Establish a consistent watering schedule during the first three years after planting. Use mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate root temperature.
Keep your london planetree healthy from here
Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Should I prune the drooping branches?
- No, do not prune them yet. Wait to see if the tree recovers with proper hydration, as cutting now adds more stress.
- Can too much sun cause drooping?
- London planetrees love full sun, but a newly planted tree may struggle with intense heat. Provide temporary shade if the tree is very young.
More problems with London planetree
- Why are there spots on my London planetree leaves?
- Why are there pests on my London planetree?
- Why are my London planetree leaves turning yellow?
- Why is my London planetree dropping leaves?
- Why are my London planetree leaves curling?
- Why do my London planetree leaves have brown tips?
- Why does my London planetree have root rot?
Back to the London planetree guide
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.