Can aphids kill my willow?

A heavy infestation can weaken the plant significantly. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.

Does my willow need more sun if leaves turn yellow?

If the yellowing is accompanied by leggy growth, it may need more light. Move it to a spot with brighter, indirect light.

Eared willow: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the new growth for aphids.
Check if the soil is waterlogged or swampy.
Assess if the plant is getting enough light.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Possible
How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustering on the new growth. They suck sap from the plant, which causes the leaves to yellow and curl.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a gentle stream of water to knock the aphids off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week until the infestation clears.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and the soil stays soggy for long periods. This prevents the roots from getting the oxygen they need to function.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes and stop watering for a few days. If the soil is waterlogged, repot the plant into fresh, well draining mix.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your eared willow

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

A single yellow leaf at the base of the plant is normal aging. Worry if the yellowing is widespread across the entire plant.

Stopping it coming back

Monitor for pests weekly and ensure the soil remains damp but not saturated.

Eared willow: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your eared willow 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

Can aphids kill my willow?: A heavy infestation can weaken the plant significantly. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.
Does my willow need more sun if leaves turn yellow?: If the yellowing is accompanied by leggy growth, it may need more light. Move it to a spot with brighter, indirect light.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my eared willow's leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your eared willow?