Should I fertilize to help it recover?

No, do not fertilize a stressed tree. Wait until it shows signs of new, healthy growth first.

Not necessarily. Willows are resilient and often bounce back once the watering or fungal issue is corrected.

Why is my goat willow dropping its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is too dry or too wet.
Examine fallen leaves for spots or discoloration.
Check the weather to see if there has been excessive rain.

Likely causes

Inconsistent Watering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown before falling off. The soil is either completely dried out or sitting in standing water.
What to do: Adjust your watering to every 3 to 7 days. Ensure the soil stays consistently damp but never waterlogged. Use a moisture meter if you are unsure about the soil depth.
Fungal Infection
Possible
How to tell: Leaves drop while still green or show dark spots before falling. This often happens during very wet and humid weather.
What to do: Remove all fallen leaves from the ground to prevent spores from spreading. Prune away any branches that show signs of disease. Keep the area around the base of the tree clean.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your goat 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

If the tree loses leaves in the middle of the growing season, it is a concern. Some leaf drop is normal as the tree prepares for winter dormancy.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a steady watering rhythm and keep the area under the tree free of debris.

Goat willow: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your goat 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

Should I fertilize to help it recover?: No, do not fertilize a stressed tree. Wait until it shows signs of new, healthy growth first.
Is my tree dying?: Not necessarily. Willows are resilient and often bounce back once the watering or fungal issue is corrected.

Why is my goat willow dropping its leaves?