It’s reasonable to expect the foliage on the trees in your yard to turn brown and fall as it enters its dormant period. However, tree leaves turning brown prematurely may indicate a problem with the plant’s health. Understanding the common reasons for tree leaf discoloration can help you learn when contacting a tree service provider in Asheville, NC, may be necessary.
In our guide below, our team at Earthworks Tree Services breaks down the most common causes and tips.
The Importance of Hiring a Professional Tree Service in Asheville, NC
Without routine maintenance and care, the trees growing on your property could develop problems. Branches can overgrow and overhang your home, trees can develop fungal infections, or they may have nutrient issues due to poor soil quality. Therefore, caring for your trees requires more than trimming their branches to achieve attractive shapes.
A trusted tree service in Asheville, NC, can provide the care and attention your plants need. Local tree care professionals provide various services, including everything from seasonal pruning to plant healthcare, to keep trees healthy, safe, and looking their best. With expertise and access to quality resources, you can be confident that your landscape will benefit from consistent care.
Typical Causes of Brown Leaves on Trees
Tree leaves turning brown isn’t always cause for concern. Yet, some problems, including the following, may contribute to premature discoloration and indicate an underlying health problem.
Leaf Scorch
This condition stems from overexposure to sunlight, and it’s common in young plants. A lack of water worsens the condition. If the browning starts at the leaf tips during a hot, dry summer, the discoloration is likely an indicator of leaf scorch and not the upcoming fall season.
Transplant Shock
If you replant a tree on your property, you may notice foliage discoloration soon after. Although concerning to some, this color change is normal and may not indicate poor health if the tree still maintains some of its green leaves.
Watering Issues
Certain tree species require more water than others. Newly planted trees and saplings also require extra moisture to establish strong root systems. Tree leaves turning brown and brittle could be a sign that your trees aren’t getting enough water to thrive.
Conversely, too much water in the soil around your tree can also be problematic and lead to leaf yellowing and browning. Leaves may also droop due to oversaturation.
Disease and Pest Infestation
Sometimes, leaf discoloration is a symptom of a fungal infection or pest infestation that’s directly affecting the plant’s health. Diagnosing these issues requires the expertise of an experienced tree care professional who can diagnose the problem and determine the most effective treatment plan.
Unsure whether you should contact a local tree service provider for a tree health assessment? Aside from premature leaf browning, look for other symptoms that could indicate a fungal disease or harmful insect infestation, such as:
- Powdery mildew
- Holes in foliage
- Bark issues, like cracks, holes, or fungus
- Stunted plant growth
Tips for Addressing Tree Leaf Browning Problems
The good news about tree leaves turning brown is that some problems have straightforward solutions. For instance, maintaining good watering practices within the first two years of transplanting a tree can provide the extra moisture it needs to grow healthily. Developing a watering schedule specific to your tree species and ensuring proper drainage also helps prevent oversaturation.
To see if your leaf browning issue stems from dry soil, use a garden trowel to dig about 18 inches into the soil around the tree. If the soil is crumbly, dusty, or compacted, the tree likely needs more moisture.
Contact a tree care service if you suspect the discoloration is due to insects or a fungal infection. Tree care professionals know the difference between trimming and pruning, the latter of which may be an effective treatment for both conditions in some cases. They can also provide other treatments to ensure the plant’s health and your property’s safety.
Turn to Earthworks Tree Services for Help With Your Tree Leaf Discoloration Issues
Tree leaves turning brown could indicate a problem with the plants in your yard, but we can help. At Earthworks Tree Services, we have the appropriate tree trimming tools, industry knowledge, hands-on experience, and effective tree care practices to restore the health, beauty, and safety of Asheville trees. Our arborist-led team can handle everything from tree disease treatment to routine pruning.
Look no further than Earthworks Tree Services for reliable tree care solutions in Asheville, NC. Call (828) 774-1984 to request an appointment today.