Why Is My Tree Losing Leaves?

Question

I have 2 indian laurel trees both around 50 feet high. I installed artificial turf around the trees and left about a foot clearance around them and put rock there. Seems like the last month they are losing alot of leaves. I do have drip system under the artificial turf to get water to the roots. Am i killing my trees with the roots not getting air? I live in phx az.

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Answer 1

Yes, and overwatering, likely. Turf will keep water from evaporating, so it will be necessary to make sure that you test the soil under before watering, although watering at all should not be necessary.