RyanVolle Posted April 1, 2012 (edited) My cute little cypress was unfortunately targeted by these small but vicious red ants. I need y'all's help if I can still save this poor tree. Edited April 1, 2012 by Volle Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sallubrious Posted April 2, 2012 It looks a lot like dieback which is caused by a fungal infection. Which fungus is causing the problem is hard to say without closer inspection. Many times insects attack the tree and that allows fungal spores to enter and slowly kill the tree. Other times it is just aphid damage. Sometimes it can be treated by pruning well below the infected area and treating with fungicide, but many times the tree will die. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RyanVolle Posted April 2, 2012 It looks a lot like dieback which is caused by a fungal infection. Which fungus is causing the problem is hard to say without closer inspection. Many times insects attack the tree and that allows fungal spores to enter and slowly kill the tree. Other times it is just aphid damage. Sometimes it can be treated by pruning well below the infected area and treating with fungicide, but many times the tree will die. would it also help if i change the soil and prune the roots? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sallubrious Posted April 2, 2012 That soil you have it in looks like garden soil so maybe the tree wasn't as healthy as it could have been because of the root conditions making it succeptable to fungal attack. Plants in pots need a more free draining potting mix. I don't know if it will help much re-potting it, it could be an extra shock that the tree can't handle in that state, a good drenching with a seaweed solution and then let it dry out for a few weeks might be better. Sometimes seaweed can rejuvenate a sick plant, but with dieback it may not do much good. Other people might have some different suggestions. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RyanVolle Posted April 2, 2012 yeah thanks but unfortunately, i dont think there's any potting soil sold in this country would cutting compost be good (one part compost, one part sand)? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sallubrious Posted April 3, 2012 That mix could be OK depending of the PH of the compost, you'll want it acidic (around PH 6) for a cypress. I'd use a bit more compost and add some of the garden soil you have as it looks like a loam. 2 parts compost 1 part sand 1/2 part garden soil If you can get coir that will be OK to add for some of your other plants but for a long term plant like a tree the coir will just break down and disappear. There are plenty of different mixes you can make, google it and see what you come up with. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RyanVolle Posted April 3, 2012 can i use diluted vinegar instead of just water? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
