Is leaf drop always a sign of disease?

No, it is often a stress response to weather or pests. Look for other symptoms like wilting or spots to confirm a disease.

Will my tree grow new leaves?

If the stress is addressed quickly, the tree will often push out new growth. Keep it well watered and wait for the next growth cycle.

Why is my apricot tree dropping its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for aphids.
Check the soil to ensure it is not waterlogged.
Look for signs of brown rot on the twigs.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects on the undersides of new leaves or near the stems. The leaves may look curled or sticky from honeydew.
What to do: Spray the affected leaves with a strong stream of water to knock the aphids off. If the problem persists, apply insecticidal soap every 7 days until they are gone.
Sudden temperature change
Possible
How to tell: Leaves drop suddenly after a sharp frost or an unexpected heat wave. The tree otherwise looks healthy and free of pests.
What to do: Provide extra water during heat waves to help the tree cope. If a frost is coming, cover the tree with a light cloth to protect the foliage.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your apricot

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 a few leaves to drop in late autumn as the tree prepares for dormancy. Worry if the tree loses a significant amount of foliage during the peak of summer.

Stopping it coming back

Monitor your tree regularly for pests and keep the soil consistently moist. A healthy, well fed tree is much better at resisting stress.

Apricot: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your apricot 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 leaf drop always a sign of disease?: No, it is often a stress response to weather or pests. Look for other symptoms like wilting or spots to confirm a disease.
Will my tree grow new leaves?: If the stress is addressed quickly, the tree will often push out new growth. Keep it well watered and wait for the next growth cycle.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why is my apricot tree dropping its leaves?