How to treat sysygium australe hinterland gold loosing leaves?

[Ed5]

Hi there!

 

 

 

Two of my new plants - 3 months old - have lost their leaves. We used a plant starter kit when planting and  the others are fine. Also one of the good plants has bumps on its leaves. Thanks 😊 

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Ed5. It's brilliant to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about lilly pilly care.

Since the plants have lost almost all their foliage but are showing signs of regrowth, it suggests they are stressed but not dead. Leaf drop like this is unusual, so it’s important to examine the remaining and new leaves closely for any signs of disease, pests, or physical damage. Look for discolouration, spots, mould, or insect activity that could explain the stress.

Regarding the bumps on the leaves of your healthy plant, these are Psyllids; tiny sap-sucking insects that deform new lilly pilly leaves, causing reddish-purple bumps, crinkles, or puckering. Their nymphs (lerps) appear as white, fluffy or waxy dots on the undersides of leaves. Spray affected leaves with a horticultural oil, making sure to coat both upper and lower surfaces. Regularly prune heavily infested shoots and keep plants healthy to reduce future infestations.

Overall, keep the stressed plants well-watered, avoid fertilising until new growth is established, and monitor for any further signs of disease or pests. The fact that new growth is appearing is a positive sign.

Here's a helpful guide: How to diagnose and care for a sick lilly pilly.

Let me tag @Noelle to see if she has any thoughts on why these plants have shed their foliage.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[Ed5]

Thank you so much Mitchell for your detailed and helpful response. I will action everything you have suggested asap…… am off to Bunnings!!! 😂

[Noelle]

Hi @Ed5 

Leaf drop like that shown in your photos is often indicative of dryness - the trees are not getting sufficient moisture to sustain the leaf canopy, so they shed leaves in an effort to conserve moisture. From now till autumn, a deep soaking at least once weekly (or twice depending on your location and the amount of summer rainfall you normally receive) should ensure the roots stay moist for loner. Use of a soil wetting agent will also aid moisture penetration and retention.

[Ed5]

Thank you so much Noelle for your advice. Will do so 😊👍