Blue star juniper problem - Ask Extension
Hi
We have 3 blue star juniper planted 1.5 years ago. They were damaged by the deer when it was newly planted and they have recovered quite a bit si...
Knowledgebase
Blue star juniper problem #646256
Asked June 04, 2020, 11:00 PM EDT
Hi
We have 3 blue star juniper planted 1.5 years ago. They were damaged by the deer when it was newly planted and they have recovered quite a bit since then.
However in the recent day, one of the blue star juniper looks a little different (see first two images). There are three different shade of colors (circled and numbered), but nevertheless, there are new growth coming out. The immediate adjacent (3rd image) doesn’t show any of the yellowing needles at all. All of these were watered with drip line (0.5gph and water a hour every 3 days)
What’s the reason why only this one showing yellowing needles with growth at the tip?
Thanks
Montgomery County Maryland
Expert Response
The discoloration of the areas one and two of your first photos look like the beginnings of die off of those branches and roots. It is not entirely possible to say exactly why, but we suspect a root issue of some sort, which could be related to being overwatered by a drip hose.
While convenient, drip hoses on a timer system really don't take into account precipitation or lack thereof, or of how the water drains within the soil.
We suggest that you take a screw driver and push it down about 6+ inches into the soil and then feel it with your finger. It should feel cool and moist but not wet. These plants can dry out a bit between watering.
You should also check your mulch. Make sure that it is not more than 3 inches deep and keep it pulled back and away from the trunk, stems or crowns of plants.
After you have done that, investigate too the affected branches for any injury from vole feeding/gnawing.
Christine
While convenient, drip hoses on a timer system really don't take into account precipitation or lack thereof, or of how the water drains within the soil.
We suggest that you take a screw driver and push it down about 6+ inches into the soil and then feel it with your finger. It should feel cool and moist but not wet. These plants can dry out a bit between watering.
You should also check your mulch. Make sure that it is not more than 3 inches deep and keep it pulled back and away from the trunk, stems or crowns of plants.
After you have done that, investigate too the affected branches for any injury from vole feeding/gnawing.
Christine
