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How to treat Hardenbergia with brown leaves?

Hello.

I am wondering if you have any ideas how to treat the following Hardenbergia 'Free and Easy' vines, of which the leaves are turning brown and appear to be attacked by insects or fungus?

I have three of these in various pots, facing west, up against timber fence in Melbourne.

They were planted two years ago.

The soil within the pots is free draining.

Thanks for your time.

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MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @jameslm. It's amazing to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about Hardenbergia care.

It sounds like your Hardenbergia might be struggling with either a fungal issue or a lack of moisture, especially if the soil is free-draining. While there doesn’t appear to be significant insect damage, the browning leaves could be a sign of stress. Given that they are in pots and facing west, they could be getting quite a bit of afternoon sun, which might dry them out quickly.

How often are you watering it? If the soil is drying out too much between waterings, it may not be getting enough consistent moisture. On the other hand, if they’re staying too wet, a fungal issue could be at play. Checking the soil moisture with your finger or a moisture meter might help narrow it down.

If the soil is genuinely free-draining, the likelihood of a fungal issue is lower but not impossible. Fungal diseases often thrive in consistently damp conditions, so if the soil dries out between waterings and has good airflow, it's less likely to be the primary cause. However, factors like humidity, poor air circulation around the plant, or previous stress could still contribute to fungal problems.

In this case, I'd focus first on moisture levels—if the soil is drying out too quickly, it’s more likely a water stress issue.

You might also like to check out some of the previous discussions on this topic in the community.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

jameslm

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/50054#Comment_50054

Thank you for your reply.

Yes, there is a good chance it isn't watered enough particularly in summer.

The soil is very free draining (ie. you can see the water leave the bottom of the pot when you water it).

The westerly exposure is somewhat limited due to the close being in close proximity to the house which does shade it for a portion of the afternoon.

I will try to attend to the watering, before considering it a fungal issue. Thanks.

MitchellMc

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/87168#Comment_87168

That sounds like a good idea @jameslm. Just ensure the soil doesn't dry out entirely before watering again. You might also consider using a fresh potting mix with some compost in it to help retain more moisture.

Mitchell

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