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What is wrong with this j... #204334

Asked August 03, 2014, 6:19 PM EDT

What is wrong with this juniper “tree”? It looks like Kabatina blight, but I don’t see any “small, black fungal fruiting bodies that produce infective spores”. There is a lot of new growth at the tips of the branches, even when most of the leaves on a branch have dried up. The problem has been ongoing for several years. There also has been an infestation of bag worms in the past, but not this year. WE have an irrigation system, so the tree gets plenty of water. Addressing the “elevant details”: • The tree is about 25 years old and about 25 feet high. • The problem has persisted for several years. • The entire planr is affected. • The symptoms have persisted for several years. • The setting has partial sun and moderate wind. There is no salt spray. • I can think of no soil problems or pesticide/fertilizer applications. I will follow up with more photos.

Caroline County Maryland

Expert Response

Unfortunately, your juniper tree cannot be saved.  The exact reason for its demise cannot be determined from either of your photos.  Our pathologist agrees that you can rule out kabatina.  The location of the tree could be one factor.  For example, if the air-conditioning (?) unit was installed after the tree was already mature, the proximity of the unit suggests that there would be considerable root damage inflicted on the tree.  Many of the roots were either severed or suffocated.  Also, the increased flow of warm air on the plant would tend to dessicate it.
Whatever the cause, the tree should be removed.  Eventually, it will be attacked by bark beetles and will become a reservoir of damaging insects.
LS
Thanks for your response.
The Question Asker Replied August 04, 2014, 12:45 PM EDT
Given the new growth at the ends of branches, and at the top (see the attached), is it possible that the tree could recover?
The Question Asker Replied August 09, 2014, 4:10 PM EDT
Given the new growth at the ends of branches, and at the top (see the attached), is it possible that the tree could recover?
The Question Asker Replied August 09, 2014, 4:10 PM EDT
  The tree may limp along but will never fully recover.  If you decide to replace,  consider mature height and width of the new plant and take into account the location of the a/c unit.
mh

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