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Check these first
- Check the soil at the base to see if it is swampy.
- Look for signs of physical damage or heavy debris on the branches.
- Examine the base of the trunk for any signs of fungal growth.
Likely causes
Root rot
Most likelyHow to tell: The entire tree looks wilted and the foliage loses its vibrant color. This happens when the soil stays soggy for too long, suffocating the roots.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and check if the soil is waterlogged. If the soil does not drain, you may need to amend the area or improve the site drainage.
Heavy snow load
PossibleHow to tell: This is less common for this plant, usually caused by heavy, wet snow weighing down the branches. You will see the branches bent toward the ground after a winter storm.
What to do: Gently brush the snow off the branches using a broom in an upward motion. Do not try to force frozen branches back into place as they may snap.
Find out what's wrong with your northern white cedar
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
If the drooping is accompanied by a foul smell from the soil or soft, mushy roots, the tree is in serious danger. Slight bending after a storm is normal and usually corrects itself.
Stopping it coming back
Ensure the tree is planted in well draining soil and avoid overwatering during cool, wet seasons.
Northern white cedar: drooping? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your northern white cedar 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 I stake the tree to stop the drooping?
- Staking is generally not recommended for established trees. It is better to address the underlying moisture or weight issue.
- Is my tree dying if it droops?
- Not necessarily, but it is a red flag. If you correct the water issues quickly, the tree often recovers.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Northern white cedar
Back to the Northern white cedar guide
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.