Tree Leaves Turning Brown

In the case of tree leaves turning brown, curling up, and falling off, leaf scorch may be the likely culprit. The obvious signs of leaf scorch are yellow and brown-like color changes on the tips and ends of tree leaves. These leaves will eventually curl up, wilt, and drop off. This disorder is also referred to as Leaf Wilt and Leaf Burn. Nutrient deficiency, transplant shock, soil compaction, drought, over wet soil and more are all common threats that cause leaf scorch and other similar tree problems.

Leaf scorch is a common condition that can occur if a plant or tree uses its water source faster than can absorb it from the ground soil. Plants and trees take in water through their fine feeder roots and transport it through the system to the leaves. Leaf tissue that is farthest from these veins will suffer first from dehydration. These edges turn color and eventually curl up or fall off. This is the start of leaf burn. In drought-like periods, leaf scorch is much more likely to develop; due to the hot temperatures and hot dry winds but can also happen when soils are too wet and cool.

Also, certain types of trees are more susceptible to leaf scorch than other variety of trees and trees that have been transplanted in the last few years. These are trees with limited root systems, which make it harder to derive water from the soil below. As mentioned before, a tree can develop leaf burn if it is using water quicker than it can pull it from the ground; however, there are other possible situations that can also cause this leaf disorder.

Once leaf scorch has developed, there is no cure. The damaged leaves will die and drop off; however, with proper tree care and water management, the tree’s leaves can recover and reproduce once again. When it comes to preventing leaf scorch, you must keep up with your seasonal tree care; especially winter watering. It is suggested to provide a deep soak, once a month, when there is no snow on the ground. This winter watering will prevent roots from dying from dehydration. This practice is helpful so long as you implement the soak on a day that is above freezing temperatures and early enough in the day so that the water does not freeze in the night chill. This is especially important for evergreens!