Should I remove the yellow leaves?

You can remove them if they are dead, but focus on fixing the watering issue first.

Does my willow have a disease?

Yellowing is usually environmental, but check for black canker lesions on the branches just in case.

Black willow: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it has dried out.
Look for signs of pests like willow leaf beetles.
Check if the yellowing is on older or newer leaves.

Likely causes

Inconsistent Watering
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves turn yellow and may drop prematurely when the tree experiences cycles of drought. The soil will feel dry and crumbly rather than moist.
What to do: Establish a strict watering routine to ensure the soil stays wet. Apply 2 to 3 inches of mulch around the base to help keep the moisture in the ground.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: It is less common for this plant, but yellowing can occur if the soil lacks nitrogen, usually caused by poor soil quality. Look for overall pale foliage rather than just individual spots.
What to do: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring. Follow the package instructions for the size of your tree to avoid overfeeding.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your black 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 yellowing spreads rapidly across the entire canopy, it may indicate a systemic issue. It is normal for a few older leaves to turn yellow and drop as the tree grows.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistent soil moisture and provide balanced nutrients in the spring.

Black willow: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your black 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 remove the yellow leaves?: You can remove them if they are dead, but focus on fixing the watering issue first.
Does my willow have a disease?: Yellowing is usually environmental, but check for black canker lesions on the branches just in case.

Why are my black willow leaves turning yellow?