Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Feel the soil to see if it is dry.
- Look closely at the new growth for tiny insects.
- Check if the plant has been moved to a spot with more direct heat.
Likely causes
Dehydration
Most likelyHow to tell: The entire plant looks wilted and the stems lose their rigidity. The soil will feel dry and pull away from the edges of the pot.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough soaking until water runs out of the drainage holes. Resume a schedule of watering every 2 to 5 days to keep the soil damp.
Aphid Infestation
PossibleHow to tell: This is less common for this plant, usually caused by heavy aphid clusters on new growth. You will see small insects and sticky residue on the leaves.
What to do: Spray the foliage with a gentle stream of water to knock the aphids off. Follow up with an application of neem oil or insecticidal soap once a week until the pests are gone.
Find out what's wrong with your 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.
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When to worry
Drooping is serious if the plant does not perk up after a good watering. It is normal for the plant to look slightly tired during the hottest part of a summer afternoon.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the willow in a location that avoids harsh, drying winds. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist at all times.
Keep your willow healthy from here
Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- How much water does my willow need?
- Willows need enough water to keep the soil constantly damp. You should never let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Will my willow die if it droops?
- Not necessarily, but it is a sign of stress. If you address the water needs promptly, it should recover within a few hours.
More problems with Willow
- Why is my willow tree dropping its leaves?
- What are these black spots on my willow leaves?
- Why are there bugs on my willow tree?
- Why are my willow's leaves turning yellow?
- Why do my willow's leaves have brown tips?
- Why is my willow tree showing signs of root rot?
- Why is my willow tree growing long and leggy?
- Why are my willow tree's leaves curling?
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.