Can a willow recover from severe leaf drop?

Yes, if the roots are still healthy, the tree will grow new leaves once you correct the watering schedule.

Should I prune the bare branches?

Wait until you are sure the branch is dead by scratching the bark to see if there is green tissue underneath. If it is brown and brittle, you can trim it back.

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

Check these first

Check the soil moisture two inches deep.
Look for signs of dry or cracked soil surface.
Inspect the base of the plant for any recent changes in location.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels dry to the touch and the leaves look brittle before falling off.
What to do: Water your willow deeply every 2 to 5 days. Ensure the soil stays consistently damp to the touch at all times.
Transplant Shock
Possible
How to tell: The tree was recently moved or repotted and started losing leaves shortly after.
What to do: Keep the tree in a stable location with consistent light. Maintain steady moisture levels and avoid fertilizing until new growth appears.

Leaf drop in other plants

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.

When to worry

It is normal for a willow to drop some leaves during the transition to autumn. Be concerned if the leaf drop is sudden and happens during the peak growing season.

Stopping it coming back

Keep a consistent watering schedule and avoid letting the soil dry out completely between waterings.

Willow: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

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

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Questions people ask

Can a willow recover from severe leaf drop?: Yes, if the roots are still healthy, the tree will grow new leaves once you correct the watering schedule.
Should I prune the bare branches?: Wait until you are sure the branch is dead by scratching the bark to see if there is green tissue underneath. If it is brown and brittle, you can trim it back.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my willow tree dropping its leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your willow?