Linden trees - Ask Extension
I have 2 linden trees that are 35+ years old located between my sidewalk and street. They are both losing excessive amounts of leaves. So many that I ...
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Linden trees #940901
Asked July 29, 2026, 12:08 PM EDT
I have 2 linden trees that are 35+ years old located between my sidewalk and street. They are both losing excessive amounts of leaves. So many that I am raking them up like it's fall! The fallen leaves are yellow or have only the veins remaining. This has happened the last couple years as well. Thanks for your help.
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Karen,
The leaves that are lacey are the result of japanese beetles. I was surprised to read that in the article below.
https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1126
Because japanese beetles can be very hard to control, especially in a tree canopy, I wouldn't worry too much if it's just a few leaves a day.
It's difficult to determine why the yellow leaves are falling off the tree. Hot, dry weather after the wet spring can cause basswood some shock, and could be the cause.
It also could be a root issue. Are there roots visible that wrap around the base of the tree, or wrap around one another?
Do you water the trees? Or could you send a picture of the base of each tree to provide a bit more information?
Thank you,
-Julie
The leaves that are lacey are the result of japanese beetles. I was surprised to read that in the article below.
https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1126
Because japanese beetles can be very hard to control, especially in a tree canopy, I wouldn't worry too much if it's just a few leaves a day.
It's difficult to determine why the yellow leaves are falling off the tree. Hot, dry weather after the wet spring can cause basswood some shock, and could be the cause.
It also could be a root issue. Are there roots visible that wrap around the base of the tree, or wrap around one another?
Do you water the trees? Or could you send a picture of the base of each tree to provide a bit more information?
Thank you,
-Julie
