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How to revive lilly pilly hedge?

Im wondering if anyone has any ideas what is causing this side of my hedge to suffer?. It has these large trees by its side. Im wondering of their root system is strangling them? It's been a hot sunny summer but the rest of hedge has bounced back now. Is there anything i can do?

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EricL

Hello @nikki4455

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your lilly pilly.

It looks like your hedge is struggling on one side while the rest has bounced back. The symptoms browning and drying leaves, twig dieback, and patchy growth—suggest several possible causes.

One of the most likely issues is root competition from the nearby large trees. Many trees have aggressive root systems that extend well beyond their canopy, drawing up most of the water and nutrients in the surrounding soil. If your hedge is planted within the root zone of these trees, it may be struggling to access enough moisture. You can try deep watering using a soaker hose or drip irrigation to penetrate the soil more effectively. Mulching around the base with organic material like bark chips or compost will also help retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation.

Another factor could be heat and sun stress, especially if this side of the hedge is more exposed. Prolonged exposure to harsh summer conditions can lead to desiccation, especially if the soil is not retaining enough moisture. If this area receives reflected heat from a nearby fence, wall, or pavement, it may be drying out more quickly than the rest of the hedge. In such cases, increasing the frequency of deep watering and possibly providing some temporary shade during extreme heat waves can help.

It's also worth considering soil quality differences. If this section of the hedge was planted in more compacted or depleted soil, it might not be able to recover as well. Compacted soil can lead to poor drainage and reduced oxygen availability for the roots. Aerating the soil around the affected plants and incorporating organic matter such as compost can improve soil structure and encourage healthier root development.

Lastly, consider water distribution issues. If your watering system is uneven or tree roots are diverting water flow, this section of the hedge might not be getting enough hydration compared to the rest. A soil moisture meter can help determine if the soil is drying out too quickly in that area.

To help revive the hedge, prune away any dead or severely damaged branches to encourage new growth. Apply a liquid seaweed treatment to strengthen root development. If tree root competition is the main issue, you may need to install a root barrier between the hedge and the trees or adjust your irrigation strategy to compensate.

Let me call on our experienced members @Noelle and @mich1972 for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

nikki4455

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/50006#Comment_50006

Hi Eric, thank you for the information I appreciate sharing your expert opinion.

Can I prune the dead the twigs now? Or should I wait a few more weeks until it cools down? When applying liquid fertiliser should I apply it to the leaves or the soil? Thanks

EricL

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/87113#Comment_87113

Hello @nikki4455

It's best to remove all the dead leaves and twigs off the plant. The liquid seaweed must be applied to the soil only, please read the application instructions at the back of the container.

Please make sure to wear personal protection such as gloves and goggles when applying he fertilizer.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

Noelle

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/87113#Comment_87113

Hi @nikki4455

It looks like Eric has given you a very detailed response to your questions about why the end of your hedge appears to be dying. In my opinion, the large tree closest to the hedge is most likely the culprit along with some reflected heat from the side fence maybe.

Take on board his recommendations and you will have a good chance of being able to safe the affected shrub.

nikki4455

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/109025#Comment_109025

Thank you Eric and Noelle. Very helpful information.

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