Diagnosing Brown, Cracking Leaves on Mature Laurels in Utah

Three Main Suspects

Large laurels in Salt Lake City show brown, dry, cracking leaves. Check for:

1. Borers: Inspect trunks for small holes, sawdust-like frass, or oozing sap. Borers kill by girdling the vascular tissue.
2. Root Damage: Recent construction, grading, or trenching near roots can cause sudden decline.
3. Winter Desiccation: Sudden temperature drops after warm spells dry out evergreen foliage.

Next Steps

• If borers: consult an arborist for trunk injection or removal.
• If root damage: water deeply, mulch, fertilize lightly.
• If desiccation: apply anti-desiccant next fall, erect windbreaks.

Because the cause isn't clear from a distance, a certified arborist's on-site diagnosis is the best investment.