Should I water every day?

Only if the soil is drying out. Check every 2 to 5 days, and water whenever the top inch of soil feels less than damp.

Will the leaves grow back?

Yes, if the stress is corrected, the tree will usually push out new growth. Keep it well watered while it recovers.

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

Check these first

Stick your finger 2 inches into the soil to check for moisture.
Check the weather history for recent heat or drought.
Examine the base of the plant for signs of root disturbance.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels dry to the touch, and the leaves may look brittle before they fall. This happens quickly during hot or windy spells.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until the soil is saturated. Maintain a schedule of watering every 2 to 5 days to keep the ground consistently damp.
Root Stress
Possible
How to tell: The plant drops leaves after being moved or if the roots have been disturbed. The soil might be compacted or lacking oxygen.
What to do: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep roots cool. Avoid digging near the root zone.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your grey 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 a large portion of its leaves in midsummer, it is a sign of severe stress. Losing a few leaves during a heatwave is a normal survival response.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently moist by mulching heavily around the base. This helps regulate soil temperature and water retention.

Grey willow: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your grey 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 water every day?: Only if the soil is drying out. Check every 2 to 5 days, and water whenever the top inch of soil feels less than damp.
Will the leaves grow back?: Yes, if the stress is corrected, the tree will usually push out new growth. Keep it well watered while it recovers.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Grey willow dropping its leaves?