I think my willow tree is dying

[tpugh]

I live in NJ. This summer has been very dry. My willow just didn't get
beautiful like it has in the past. It wasn't very thick. Around early
September the leaves began to fall off. Now at the end of September
they are practically all gone. The tree does still look green. All the
other willows I see still are lush and beautiful. The roots do show
through the ground at the base and at the back of the tree I spotted
a large fungus growth. I did water the tree often during the dry spell.

Do you think the tree will have a chance to survive next season?
Should I do anything for it.

 

[Mike Barcaskey]

pictures would be helpful.
Comparing the condition of your willow to other willows you say are in better shape; are they the same species, planted in similar areas?
How did you water? Long, deep infrequent soaks are better than many short hosing.
If everything points to a lack of water this year, the tree should be fine, unless it suffers additional stresses.