New October Glory Maple Leaf Edges Browning — Transplant Shock + Heat, Not Weed Killer

Sudden Brown, Brittle Edges on Immature Leaves After Heat Wave

March-planted maple in full afternoon sun: delayed leaf-out, then caught up. Now small leaves have brown, crispy edges after 5-day 98–100°F spell. Lawn service applied weed killer nearby last week.

Weed Killer? Unlikely

Unless sprayed directly on tree, drift won't cause this pattern. Transplant shock + extreme heat = classic marginal leaf scorch.

What's Happening

• New roots can't supply water fast enough for transpiration in heat.
• Leaf margins (farthest from veins) sacrifice first.
• Tree may defoliate early — but won't die.

Care Plan

• Water deeply 2×/week through summer (1" each).
• Mulch 3" — not touching trunk.
• No fertilizer until established.
• Expect ugly summer — next year will be normal.

The tree is building roots. Support it, don't panic.