Expert: kathy crowley - 11/17/2008

Question
I live on a one acre property and have planted eugenia plants on both sides. The get the same amout of sun and water. The one side was thriving and doing well. Some plants on the other side are fine, while others will not
grow in, and are dieing with no leaves. I see that thhree adult plant on the good side are now dieing? They seem to have some scale and fungus growing on them?
What should I do? I have tried spraying them but they do seem to respond.

Answer
Hi thomas, Surprised you are having a problem with this plant especially if it is a surniam cherry hedge. Diseases: No diseases are of major concern. May drop leaves if watering is inconsistant. Not salt tolerant, is what I found on the net.  Did you plant them too deep? You should still see the soil that was in the pot.  Planting too deep can smother the roots.  I use 100 per cent pure Neem OIl spray as it is organic, being a fungicide, miticide and bug deterrent it alters the taste of the leaves and bugs go else where, and does not wash off.  Also, check to see if your sprinkles may be clogged where the ones are having a problem.  kathy