How to treat Pomegranate with burnt growth?

[CarolynD]

The new growth of my pomegranate tree looks as though it starts growing nicely and then burns off. I would say that it is scorch from the sun but it is happening mid winter. Could this be a pest issue? I would appreciate any advice!

[JacobZ]

Hi @CarolynD,

Based on your description, the most likely cause of the burnt-looking new growth on your pomegranate is cold damage. While the tree is hardy overall, tender new shoots are vulnerable to frost and sudden temperature drops. These conditions can cause cell damage, leading to brown, dried, or scorched-looking tips—even without strong sun.

To manage this, prune the affected tips. This prevents infection and encourages new growth. 

Apply a seaweed tonic like Seasol to boost recovery and root strength. 

Avoid fertilising until healthy new shoots appear in spring, as feeding too early may encourage more soft growth prone to cold damage.

For future protection, cover the tree on cold nights with something like hessian, and apply mulch around the base to insulate the roots. 

Cold damage is common but manageable, and your tree should bounce back with a little care.

You might like to check out How To Grow Pomegranates for some further guidance on caring for your pomegranate trees.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[CarolynD]

Hi Jacob,

Thank you so much for your response! I think I recall this happening year round, which is why I didn't think about weather damage. I will take your advice and hope that this settles over the warmer months. I usually apply Seasol and Powerfeed but haven't done so in a few months.

Just a side question though - how do you apply slow release fertiliser once you have mulched a garden bed? 

Thanks again!

[JacobZ]

Hi @CarolynD,

You can just sprinkle slow-release fertiliser over the mulch. Rainwater and whatever water you add will slowly break it down over time which will then cause it to seep down into the soil where it will be put to use. If you wanted to, mixing it into the mulch will help it get closer to the soil, but it won't change too much. The mulch won't stop it from being absorbed.

Jacob