Katsura Tree Leaves Are Turning Yellow And Falling In August. Is This Normal?

Question

We moved into a house with a Katsura tree. Over the past 3 years we are noticing that it sheds its leaves very early each year. (They are falling now, in August.) Is this normal?

Answer 1

It is not normal because the leaves are supposed to turn colors in the fall before dropping. The trees are cold sensitive, but I'm sure you are not having cold weather in August. However, after doing some research, others with Katsura trees report early leaf loss due to hot weather or drought. They are not drought tolerant and prefer a moist soil, so if the area around your tree is dry, that likely accounts for the early leaf loss. Trees will drop their leaves in order to save themselves if they encounter stress.

So, if you are experiencing any of those environmental issues, you can chalk it up to that, but if not, I would check the leaves for evidence of disease, such as spots, or insect pests such as scale or aphids.

https://trees.umn.edu/katsura-cercidiphyllum-japonicum

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/katsura/japanese-katsura-tree-care.htm