Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Dig a small hole near the root ball to check for standing water.
- Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
- Examine the base of the trunk for any signs of damage.
Likely causes
Root rot
Most likelyHow to tell: The foliage loses its upright structure and looks wilted or limp. The soil around the base may smell sour or remain soggy for days after watering.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and improve soil drainage by amending the surrounding area. If the rot is severe, you may need to consult a professional to treat the soil with a fungicide.
Transplant shock
PossibleHow to tell: This occurs shortly after planting when the roots have not yet established in the new soil. The tree looks tired and the branches sag under their own weight.
What to do: Keep the root ball consistently moist but not saturated. Provide temporary shade or wind protection if the tree is exposed to harsh conditions.
Find out what's wrong with your arborvitae
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 foliage stays limp for more than a week. It is normal for branches to bend slightly under the weight of heavy, wet snow.
Stopping it coming back
Plant your Arborvitae in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering during the cooler months.
Keep your arborvitae 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
- Will my tree recover from drooping?
- If the cause is mild root rot or transplant shock, the tree can recover with proper care. If the roots have completely decayed, the tree will not survive.
- Does drooping mean I need to fertilize?
- No, never fertilize a drooping or stressed tree. Wait until it shows signs of new, healthy growth.
More problems with Arborvitae
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.