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Chinese Elm Sudden Leaf Curl and Death: Root/Soil Trauma

2-Year-Old Chinese Elm in Tucson Suddenly Loses All Leaves

Hot but normal for tree. 3 days ago leaves curled, light green, now dry and dead. Branches bendy.

Expert Assessment

Ulmus parvifolia durable (zones 4–9). Sudden decline suggests trauma. Likely root/soil issue, not infectious disease. Check soil moisture (moist not wet). Look for trunk bark injury (mower/trimmer = death sentence). Check leaves for insect feeding. Scratch twigs for green tissue to gauge releafing potential.

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