I just planted a tree and the leaves are wilting. Did I do something wrong?

Wilting on a newly planted tree is usually transplant shock — the tree lost most of its roots when it was dug or potted, and the remaining roots can't yet supply the whole canopy. It's common and often recoverable if you respond correctly.

The most likely causes (in order):

1. Underwatering — by far the most common. New roots dry out fast.
2. Overwatering / poor drainage — soggy soil suffocates roots and also causes wilting, which fools people into watering more. Check before you water.
3. Planted too deep — buried root flare stresses the tree (see How deep should I plant a tree?).
4. Heat and wind right after planting increase water demand.

What to do:

1. Check soil moisture 2-3 inches down at the root ball. Dry → water deeply; soggy → let it dry out. Don't just keep dumping water.
2. Water deeply and consistently — about 1-1.5 gallons per inch of trunk diameter, on a schedule (see How often should I water a newly planted tree?).
3. Mulch a wide, flat ring (keep it off the trunk) to hold moisture.
4. Don't fertilize a stressed new tree — it can worsen the problem. And don't prune healthy branches; the tree needs its leaves.
5. Be patient. Trees often drop some leaves and re-leaf. Scratch a twig — green underneath means it's still alive.

Recovery from transplant shock can take a full season or two. See our Planting Guide.