Q.New Mesquite Tree Losing Dry Crumbly Leaves. November In The Southern California Desert.
Just planted a couple weeks ago. Deep waterig it 2-3 times a week as suggested by nursery.
Sliced a bit of bark off, inside looks green. But leaves arent just yellow, they seem dry and dead, fall off with a good shake, crumble when pinched.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It is unfortunate to see watering instructions such as this from a nursery.
It sounds like it has suffered from overwatering. The best indicator that it should be watered, while establishing, will be that it is completely dry down to about 3 inches before watering again. Watering before, especially with these trees, can easily lead to overwatering damage.
You will want to wait until Spring to prune it. Patience and good watering practice will pay off, here. This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/mesquite/growing-mesquite-trees.htm