Cottonwood Early Leaf Drop: Waterlogging Stress

Cause Identified

Six episodes of standing water (1+ days each) around roots this summer caused root oxygen deprivation → premature leaf drop in August instead of September.

Prognosis

Not serious. Cottonwoods tolerate flooding better than most trees. Early leaf drop is a stress response, not damage. Tree will shut down normally and leaf out fully next spring with no visible effect.

No Action Needed

Don't fertilize, don't spray. Monitor next spring—expect normal performance. If the site chronically floods, consider long-term drainage improvement, but one wet summer is harmless.