Dying dwarf citrus trees!
RachelN
10 years ago
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RachelN
10 years agoRelated Discussions
Improved Dwarf Meyer Lemon Tree: Post-Scale Dying?
Comments (5)Matt, what did you use to rid scale? Baby shampoo or a chemical insecticide? Chemicals are dangerous. Especially if used indoors. Since you're in NY, you either sprayed inside or hauled outdoors to apply..Or did you use systemic? I once killed a Gardenia tree by using a harsh chemical, even though, the tree was outside, and I followed directions to a T. Ironically, branches blackenedd and tree died..Not from scale, but the chemical itself, since it died the day after applying insecticide. I spray citrus with Fish Emulsion, in autumn, before bringing indoors..FE prevents and kills scale on contact. If you find Fish Emulsion replusive, (it has a fishy smell that lasts about 2 days, but they now sell an odorless type) there are other oils such as Neem. Artificial light will certainly help, but in your case, I doubt low light is/was the cause of your lemon's problems. Stop fertilizing..For one thing, as you stated, light is low..Citrus go into a semi-dormancy..They need a rest period..If light is low, plants slow down, therefore, adding fertilizer can cause spindly growth. Also, when a plant is undergoing problems, disease/insects, it is advised to stop adding fertilizer. If anything, in early fall, add a slow-release, low NPK type. In spring, or when growth is spotted, start your regular feeding program. I disagree the Baby Shampoo did any damage. How much did you use, and what ratio of water? One author and tv host, Jerry Baker, recommends cleaning foliage with baby shampoo.. Did you discard the Ficus? Considering it's a bonsai, scale shouldn't be too difficult ridding. For starters, you can hand-pick, unless you're squeamish about bugs..Matt, you're talking to a 'bugophobic,' lol, yet, if I saw scale on a plant, you'd best believe I'd start plucking, though spraying is preferable..lol Prune blackened branches..they will not resort to green. Shake plant to remove dead leaves..Toss leaves in the trash, or burn..which reminds me..if you have other plants, especially neighboring, inspect each carefully..also, isolate plants with scale. Move plants to a cool,(65-68F is fine) airy, humid location..and yes, humidifers help big time..fresh air is also important. If you have a ceiling fan, run on low at least 1 hour a day..it circulates air to a degree. I also use a rotating fan. Matt, do you have a picture to post? If your citrus is managable size, after removing dead leaves, haul to sink or shower, allow water wash leaves..2-4 mins. Hose Ficus too. Matt, I'm an optimist when it comes to plants..only plants, but plants, nonetheless..Some of my plants were bought in what I coined, the 'dead cart' in stores where plants were going to be tossed..In and outdoor plants..I'd never buy an infested plant, no Sir, I'm not that optimistic..lol.. Good luck, Toni If you have any questions, ask away..Please stop fertilizing, and before adding water, check soil, make sure it's dry before giving a drink....See MoreDwarf Citrus Tree Help
Comments (1)First, it looks like your bud union is at the right side of your photo at about where the tree intersects the line of the pot. Second, if it is dwarfing rootstock, the leaves of any "suckers" will be notably different than those of the main tree Last, I would lose the stake and ties; citrus are self supporting and the stake will cause it to grow taller and more spindly. If you think the stake is "necessary" try lowering the ties from the top down about 3 inches every couple of months, until there are no more ties. Allowing the tree to bend with the breeze will strengthen the trunk....See MoreCitrus Cankers on dwarf mandarin tree?
Comments (4)Thanks for the comments ken_adrian and gardengal48! The Tree is in a half wine barrel container and is on my balcony where it receives about 3/5ths day's full sun. It's PH level is a good 6.5 - 7.0 and I have been monitoring it weekly. It's springtime here (Melbourne Aus) and so it's a nice 25 degrees Celcius every day and getting warmer by the week. The Tree appeared to go through winter very well, it had loads of new leaf growth and stacks of flowers pop up in early spring. It's potted with a mixture of high grade organic potting mix, as well as 20% cow manure. And is fed citrus tree 'pellets' (A sprinkle around the feeder roots) about once every 2 months. GardenGal48, I'm very encouraged by your assertion that it is not citrus canker! I hope its something that can be controlled :) I'll Give the rubbing alcohol a shot and post the results. I'm guessing the scale hate alcohol and drop off the tree to safety! Here's hoping. Thanks and if there are any other comments or suggestions I'd love to hear. Cheers, Glenn...See MoreOld Dwarf Citrus Tree
Comments (21)Dan, I like Carrizo root characteristics; but for planting in ground it is susceptible to several issues, in particular phytophera, which is not a problem in containers, and wet feet. Volkameriana tends to grow slower and produce fewer and larger fruits. Grapefruits are more tolerant of higher pH; in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, they grow them with 8,5 pH water and 8 pH soils; of course they have to chelated iron at that pH....See Moresusanne42
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