Blue Pacific Juniper Problems [4 Issues + Solution]
Blue Pacific juniper trees are popular for lawn planting because of their thick green leaves. As it is spread over a large area like grass, any problem with this plant is noticed very quickly which spoils its beauty. There are several issues that hinder the normal growth of blue Pacific juniper trees. Such as;
- Juniper Blight
- Falling Leaves
- Leaves Turning Yellow
- Tips Browning
But you are not alone. Most gardeners are familiar with such problems with juniper trees. So it is very important to know the solution to these problems. In today’s article, I will discuss that in detail. So let’s get started.
What's On the Page
4 Proven Ways to Fix Blue Pacific Juniper Problems
1. Juniper Blight
The common issue with blue Pacific juniper trees is blight. Basically, it’s a Pathogenic disorder. From the top to the bottom of the plant, yellow patches typically first develop before turning brown. The issue is really sophisticated. So you should take immediate action.
Causes
- Water Issue
- Bacteria
- Fungi
Treatment Guide
The water drainage system should be improved. Do not plant your juniper tree in a location where rainwater constantly accumulates. Before each application of water, check whether the soil is wet.
Pruning the affected limb can serve as the first step in primary treatment for fungal attacks. In this instance, it is necessary to sterilize the pruning tools and burn the pruned pieces. Utilizing an effective antifungal spray to stop infection is the next step.
Every morning and night, fresh water should be sprayed on the plants to prevent reinfection. If it is caused by bacteria then antibacterial medicine must be applied. Using copper and mancozeb containing fungicide can also be effective. Use it at least for 10 days.
2. Falling Leaves
One of the attractions of the blue pacific juniper tree is its dense green leaves. So the problem of losing the leaves of this tree is quite worrying. In the beginning, few leaves are lost, but this rate increases within a few days. Which spoils the beauty of the tree and causes long-term damage to the tree.
Causes
- Over Watering
- Under Watering
- Pests
Treatment Guide
First of all, you need to water the plant two to three times a week for three to four months after planting. However, the soil must be checked before applying water. You can easily identify wet soil by inserting a stick into it.
After one year of planting, you should water once a week. However, the water demand may be less or more in very hot or cold weather. A well-drained soil is a must.
For common pests such as spider mites or mealybugs, a good quality insecticide spray is enough. There are certain pests for which you need to use organic pesticides. You can easily make it at home by mixing two spoons of neem oil and one spoon of vinegar in half a litre of water.
3. Leaves Turning Yellow
Many beginners think of the yellowing of pacific juniper leaves as an enhancement of the plant’s beauty. That is a misconception. So if you see any leaves of your tree turning yellow, be careful. Yellow leaves later turn brown, develop holes and fall off. It is also responsible for the death of plants.
Causes
- Lack of Sunlight
- Chlorosis
Treatment Guide
Your blue pacific juniper plant needs a sunny spot for normal growth and green leaves. A minimum of five to six hours of full sun per day should be ensured for the plant. If indoors, you can place the plant near the east facing window of your room.
If your plant is outdoors, you should choose a sunny spot before planting. However, the plant will require partial shade during the rest of the day. You must use a shade cloth to protect the plant, especially from the afternoon sun.
Chlorosis can easily be prevented by ensuring adequate iron and nitrogen. Many types of iron and nitrogen rich varieties are available in the market. But in the case of using fertilizers, I would suggest using organic material.
Epsom salt mixed with human or cattle urine and applied to the roots of plants acts as a good source of nitrogen. However, the volume of urine should be low to avoid toxicity.
Liquid iron can be sprayed on the leaves to compensate for iron deficiency. Or even if a little bone meal is mixed with the soil, effective results are obtained.
4. Tips Browning
Sometimes juniper leaves suddenly turn brown around the tips. And quickly they become crispy. As a result, although the rest of the leaves are green, they lose vitality and fall.
Causes
- Sunburn
- Salt Injury
- Physical Damage
- Canker
Treatment Guide
The plant should be kept away from excessive sunlight. If the morning sun is guaranteed, you can move your plant away from a window or balcony. Usually, sunburned leaves do not heal. So they should be removed.
Avoid over-fertilizing plants to prevent salt injury. Juniper plants usually only need to fertilize once a year. But in this case, organic fertilizers should be preferred.
If for some reason the tree needs to be replanted or the tree needs to be moved somewhere, the work must be done carefully. If any part of the plant is damaged, the wound should be washed with potassium permanganate water.
A good quality anti-fungal spray will protect your plants from cankers.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Can I Plant a Blue Pacific Juniper Next to House?
Blue juniper trees should be planted four to five feet apart rather than right next to the house. It is not likely to be damaged by the wall as the plant grows. However, in this case, it is necessary to check how strong the ground foundation of the house is.
What Does a Dying Juniper Look Like?
A dying juniper’s tip of its branches becomes pale, then reddish-brown, eventually turning brown and breaking off the shrub. Where the dead branch parts meet the living branch sections, the branches begin to develop cankers.
Can I Overwater Juniper Tree?
Juniper plants should never be overwatered. For Juniper, overwatering often causes more issues than underwatering. If the plant requires water, the branches can break and dry out. If the Juniper is overwatered, the branch tips may turn brown or yellow.
Conclusion
Examining the external factors that your plant is growing in and keeping an eye out for other indicators of a problem are the keys to figuring out the reasons for blue Pacific juniper tree issues.
A thorough examination generally reveals the problem, allowing you to correct it and restore your plant to perfect strength.
In other words, if you are aware of the circumstances the plant requires and make an attempt to meet them, you are likely to prevent all of the issues listed. Happy Gardening.
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