Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Check the soil moisture level with your finger.
- Observe if the browning is happening on the newest or oldest leaves.
- Look for signs of wind damage or extreme heat exposure.
Likely causes
Inconsistent watering
Most likelyHow to tell: The tips of the leaves will turn brown and brittle when the tree experiences cycles of being too dry and then too wet. This often happens if you miss a watering during a hot week.
What to do: Establish a regular watering routine every 2 to 5 days. Ensure the water reaches deep into the soil rather than just wetting the surface.
Environmental stress
PossibleHow to tell: This is less common for this plant, and usually happens when the tree is exposed to drying winds or intense, direct heat. The leaf edges and tips will brown while the rest of the leaf stays green.
What to do: Provide some protection from harsh afternoon sun or strong winds if possible. Increasing the moisture in the soil will help the tree cope with the heat.
Find out what's wrong with your grey sallow
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
Minor browning is rarely a major issue, but if the browning spreads to the whole leaf, the tree is under significant stress. It is normal to see some browning during an exceptionally hot summer.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the soil consistently damp and provide a sheltered spot if your area is prone to high winds. Mulch helps regulate soil temperature and moisture.
Grey sallow: brown tips? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your grey sallow 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.
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Questions people ask
- Can I trim the brown tips off?
- Yes, you can trim them with clean scissors for aesthetic reasons. Just be careful not to cut into the healthy green tissue.
- Does this mean my tree is dying?
- Not necessarily, it is just a sign that the tree is not getting enough water to support its foliage. Adjusting your watering routine usually fixes the problem.
More problems with Grey sallow
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.