
Causes of Tree Leaves Dying or Turning Brown
- Over-Exposure to Sun
- Frost Damage
- Transplant Shock
- Insects and Disease
- Insufficient watering
- Soil compaction
- Over-fertilization
What causes brown spots on eucalyptus leaves?
Brown spots in Eucalyptus leaves are caused by the presence of a chemical called terpinen-4-ol. It’s a carotenoid, which means it’s made up of carotene. Terpinen-4-ol occurs naturally in the leaves of Eucalyptus plants, but sometimes it is left behind and then the chemical takes over.
Why is my eucalyptus plant dying?
This is a fungus that can infect the leaves of the Eucalyptus plant. If this disease is left untreated, the plant will eventually die and you will have to replant the leaves. Another disease that can affect the leaves of the plant is the stem rot disease.
How do you treat eucalyptus leaves that are turning yellow?
The approach you take will depend on the symptoms your tree is exhibiting. Plantophiles states that yellow leaves can be caused by too much humidity or overwatering. Gently pull off any loose yellow leaves and do not water the plant as often. If this does not help, move the eucalyptus to another part of the house that has less humidity.
Why is my eucalyptus tree splitting along the trunk?
When canker attacks the trunk, the result will eventually be the eucalyptus trees splitting along their trunks or, if the canker girdles the trunk, strangling the eucalyptus tree. Problems with canker are also found in eucalyptus bushes. Disease moves quickly from branch to branch until the bush can no longer nourish itself.

How do I revive my eucalyptus plant?
Gently pull off any loose yellow leaves and do not water the plant as often. If this does not help, move the eucalyptus to another part of the house that has less humidity. This should perk up the tree.
How often should you water eucalyptus?
Overall, in hot climates, it is best to water new trees at least once per week and established trees every 7 to 21 days. The more frequent time recommendation is for trees in sandy soil.
How do I know if my eucalyptus tree is dying?
Keep an eye out for brown, withered leaves on your eucalyptus tree, as this can be an early sign of a dying eucalyptus. If your eucalyptus tree begins to shed the bark on its trunk and branches, and is exposing a brown shade of wood underneath, it is most likely dead. Loss of leaves can also signify a dead tree.
Does eucalyptus like sun or shade?
full sunEucalyptus thrive in full sun. Most also grow well in: Well-drained conditions, and most soil types, including poor soils.
Why is my potted eucalyptus dying?
Any tree species in a pot will keep falling over and require far too much watering, it's going to dry out and shrivel and you will become depressed! Dark gloomy locations under other trees: Eucalyptus require full sun. They will only brighten up a dark corner for a few weeks, after that, they will suffer!
What does a diseased eucalyptus tree look like?
It can attack all parts of the tree and is often evidenced by wilted, yellowing foliage, stunted growth, and reddish, orange or brown cankers on the trunk and stems or under the bark. The tree may ooze a reddish or dark sap that stains the trunk.
What does a dead eucalyptus tree look like?
0:392:13Is My Eucalyptus Tree Dead? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf your eucalyptus tree begins to shed the bark on its trunk and branches and is exposing a brownMoreIf your eucalyptus tree begins to shed the bark on its trunk and branches and is exposing a brown shade of wood underneath it is most likely dead lots of leaves can also signify a dead drain.
What kills a eucalyptus tree?
Heart or trunk rot is a fungus that destroys the tree from the inside out. By the time the eucalyptus tree's drooping branches are discovered, the tree is already dying. There is little to be done for eucalyptus tree diseases these fungi cause. Preventing the spread of disease should be a priority.
What causes eucalyptus to turn brown?
There are several fungi that can cause eucalyptus tree diseases. Known as root, collar, foot or crown rot, the disease shows itself first through discolored leaves and red-brown or dark brown wood directly beneath the bark. Heart or trunk rot is a fungus that destroys the tree from the inside out.
How to tell if eucalyptus tree is dead?
Dead limbs become brittle and may fall off the tree. Test your eucalyptus tree's branches by bending or snapping them. If they are pliable and bendy, and moist and green inside, then they are not dead yet. If they break off easily and are dry and brown inside, then they're dead.
What causes eucalyptus to turn brown?
There are several fungi that can cause eucalyptus tree diseases. Known as root, collar, foot or crown rot, the disease shows itself first through discolored leaves and red-brown or dark brown wood directly beneath the bark. Heart or trunk rot is a fungus that destroys the tree from the inside out.
How to tell if eucalyptus tree is dead?
Dead limbs become brittle and may fall off the tree. Test your eucalyptus tree's branches by bending or snapping them. If they are pliable and bendy, and moist and green inside, then they are not dead yet. If they break off easily and are dry and brown inside, then they're dead.
10 Reasons Your Eucalyptus Plant is Dying (& Solutions)
While numerous pests and diseases can affect the health of your eucalyptus plant, issues more commonly occur due to incorrect care.
3 Key Tips for Growing Healthy Eucalyptus Plants
Your eucalyptus plant needs to receive plenty of sunlight, especially if it is housed indoors. The pot should be large enough for the large root ball, but not too large that it holds excess water in the soil.
Related Questions
Dryness due to underwatering is the reason your eucalyptus leaves are curling. However, too little humidity or transplant shock can also cause the plant to be too dry.
Conclusion
Even though eucalyptus plants have specific requirements for healthy growth, it is worth the effort to grow one of these beautiful plants.
melanie93 Apprentice Gardener
Hi, I'm new to the world of gardening moving into my first home with a garden in march. I have a tall established eucalyptus tree in the back garden. I've noticed the leaves are turning an orangey-brown colour and starting to drop. Does this mean the tree has a disease or is it because of the heat? Or something else? Thanks Mel ☺️
Marley Farley Affable Admin! Staff Member
Well I am not sure but if it is just odd branches of leaves dying I would tend to think weather as they can stress in the heat... They are very susceptible to wind burn and scotching..
Why are my eucalyptus leaves turning yellow?
Plantophiles states that yellow leaves can be caused by too much humidity or overwatering. Gently pull off any loose yellow leaves and do not water the plant as often. If this does not help, move the eucalyptus to another part of the house that has less humidity. This should perk up the tree.
Why is my tree bark turning brown?
Brown leaves can be more problematic, and if the bark starts to turn reddish-brown, you may have a real problem on your hands. This could be a sign of diseases like crown, collar, foot or root rot . You can apply neem oil to the plant to cure these issues.
What zone is Eucalyptus globulus?
If you grow eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus, USDA plant hardiness zones 8 through 11), you might be very concerned if the plant looks like it is struggling. Are you wondering how to revive eucalyptus? The approach you take will depend on the symptoms your tree is exhibiting.
Why is eucalyptus used in tea?
Not only do they look beautiful but they are commonly used in herbal cold and flu therapies because of their healing menthol fragrance . People also put eucalyptus in their teas, potpourri, massage oils and bath additives, and it is also a popular essential oil. There are many reasons to cultivate the plant but be sure you are caring for it properly.
Do eucalyptus plants need water?
They still need to be watered, so check the soil often. During the hotter months, they may need to be watered daily.
Can you let Eucalyptus sit in water?
If you forget and some of the leaves dry out, just pick them off and pay better attention to your eucalyptus. Never let your eucalyptus sit in water because this can encourage root rot.
Can you stake eucalyptus?
You can also put a stake into the soil to encourage it to grow upward. The trimmed branches and stems make for beautiful floral arrangements. Eucalyptus roots tend to circle densely when growing in round pots, and they can get tight and tangled. If you need to replant it, choose a pot that is an inch or two larger.
Why do eucalyptus trees drop branches?
Leaves turn yellow and drop, and it is common to see eucalyptus trees dropping their branches as the disease takes hold. When canker attacks the trunk, the result will eventually be the eucalyptus trees splitting along their trunks or, if the canker girdles the trunk, strangling the eucalyptus tree. Problems with canker are also found in eucalyptus bushes. Disease moves quickly from branch to branch until the bush can no longer nourish itself.
What pests attack eucalyptus trees?
Insect pests may attack trees and eucalyptus bushes. Disease or weakness of any kind are open invitations for pests to invade. The red gum lurp psyllid are recognized by the little white houses (lurps) they secrete over themselves for protection. They also secrete a sticky honeydew that often becomes so thick it drips from the branches.
What happens when a eucalyptus tree canker attacks the trunk?
When canker attacks the trunk, the result will eventually be the eucalyptus trees splitting along their trunks or, if the canker girdles the trunk, strangling the eucalyptus tree. Problems with canker are also found in eucalyptus bushes. Disease moves quickly from branch to branch until the bush can no longer nourish itself.
What to do about eucalyptus tree fungus?
There is little to be done for eucalyptus tree diseases these fungi cause. Preventing the spread of disease should be a priority. Burn all damaged wood immediately and disinfect any equipment used.
How to deal with eucalyptus bushes?
Keeping your trees healthy is the best way to confront problems with eucalyptus trees and eucalyptus bushes. Disease and pests are usually opportunistic and invade where stress is present. Prune heavily and destroy all wood at the first sign of infection, and hope for the best.
Where did Eucalyptus originate?
Eucalyptus. By: Jackie Rhoades. Printer Friendly Version. Image by Santje09. Problems with eucalyptus trees are a fairly recent occurrence. Imported to the United States around 1860, the trees are native to Australia and up until 1990 were relatively pest and disease free.
What is the disease that shows itself first through discolored leaves and red-brown or dark brown wood?
Known as root, collar, foot, or crown rot, the disease shows itself first through discolored leaves and red-brown or dark brown wood directly beneath the bark. Heart or trunk rot is a fungus that destroys the tree from the inside out.
Why are my eucalyptus leaves turning brown?
Leaves shifting to a brown hue. A Eucalyptus that experiences browning of the leaves is usually at risk of having various diseases such as root, foot, collar, or crown rot. Discoloration is typically the first sign followed by the bark becoming reddish brown.
Why do you repot eucalyptus?
Regardless of the species, repotting is pivotal for keeping the root system healthy. The first few years of a Eucalyptus plant’s life involve a lot of rapid growth.
What to do if Eucalyptus leaves curl up?
If the leaves start to turn yellow and curl up, simply add a few squirts of mist and that will likely revive it. Overall, this shouldn’t be an issue while you have your Eucalyptus indoors.
How cold can eucalyptus live?
Anything below 10 degrees Celsius for an extended period of time is too much for a Eucalyptus to handle.
How to tell if soil is too dry?
An easy way to check if the soil is too dry is to use your finger. Place your finger about two inches deep into the soil.
Why are my sage leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing of the leaves. As you may have guessed by now, the leaves can tell you a lot about your plant’s health. Browning is an indication that there is a possible disease or fungus. Yellow coloration, on the other hand alludes to an excess of liquid. This can be a result of overwatering, or too much humidity.
What is the best way to care for Eucalyptus?
This rings true for both the indoor individuals and those growing tall as trees outdoors. If you can find a spot in your house that has access to full, indirect sunlight, then that would be best.
