Red Sunset Maple Leaves Turning Brown: Causes and Solutions

An 8-year-old Red Sunset Maple that has thrived for years suddenly shows distress: after blooming and producing green leaves this spring, the foliage is now turning brown, drying up, and falling off. The owner in northeast Ohio reports a very wet winter and early spring followed by weeks of intense heat and little rain. Neighboring Red Sunset Maples appear healthy, adding to the concern.

Diagnosing the Problem

First, inspect the trunk for obvious damage, especially near the soil line. Look for signs of excavation that may have severed roots, or any chemical spills or herbicide drift under the canopy. If nothing obvious appears, the issue may stem from delayed drought stress.

Checking Tree Vitality

Use your fingernail to scratch the bark on several small twigs near branch tips. Green tissue beneath the bark and flexible twigs indicate the tree is still alive and the stress may be temporary. Also dig down 6 inches under the drip line to assess soil moisture. If the soil is dry, a thorough deep watering could help reverse the decline, depending on how long the stress has persisted.

Next Steps

If the tree shows green tissue and flexible twigs, begin a regimen of deep, infrequent watering to encourage root recovery. Monitor closely over the coming weeks. If twigs snap easily and show no green, the damage may be irreversible. In that case, consult a certified arborist for a professional evaluation.