Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Feel the soil to see if it is dry.
- Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny insects.
- Check if the plant has been moved to a much hotter spot.
Likely causes
Drought stress
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves may look crisp or curled before they fall off, and the soil feels bone dry to the touch. This happens quickly if the plant misses its regular watering during a hot spell.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until the soil is saturated. Maintain a consistent schedule by checking the soil every 2 to 3 days. Add a layer of mulch around the base to help hold in moisture.
Aphid infestation
PossibleHow to tell: You might see tiny green or black insects on the undersides of leaves or notice sticky residue on the foliage. Heavy feeding can cause leaves to yellow and drop prematurely.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water to knock the aphids off. If they persist, use an insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.
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
It is normal for a few leaves to drop in late autumn as the plant prepares for winter. Be concerned if the leaf drop is sudden and happens during the peak growing season.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the soil consistently damp and monitor the foliage regularly for pests.
Grey sallow: leaf drop? 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 let the soil dry out completely?
- No, the grey sallow loves moisture and will suffer if the soil dries out. Always keep it damp.
- Will my plant die if it loses all its leaves?
- If it is just a temporary drought, it will likely recover with proper watering. If the branches are still flexible and green under the bark, it is still alive.
Guides to these causes
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.