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Italian Cypress Seems To Be Dying #744451

Asked April 15, 2021, 11:44 AM EDT

A little over four years ago we planted seven Italian Cypress Trees that were delivered in #65 gallon size containers. These trees are now approximately 18 feet tall, but in the past few months something has caused many branches to turn brown. On close examination I find that at the very end of many of these brown branches there remains some green needles. Let me add that the top 1/3 of the trees are nice and green and they look healthy.

These Italian Cypress Trees are obviously a big investment and I want to do everything I can to keep them alive and healthy. About a week ago I had a tree service spray them with something designed to control insects and mite pests. I do not know if this is what needs to be done.

I am attaching two photos for you to see — one will show the degree to which limbs have turned brown and the other will be a close-up of a dead-looking branch showing the green needles at the very end.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing back from you when time permits.

Bexar County Texas

Expert Response

There are 2 major problems for Italian cypress mites and fungal disease. If the tree care service was able to identify the mites then the application they made should help get the population under control. If it is a fungal issue, then the pesticide application will have no effect since a fungicide will need to be applied. 

I don't know if you work with a certified arborist. If you do here is a link to confirm certification, and the same link can help you find a certified arborist in your area. https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/arboristsearch

Here is an additional resource: https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/library/landscaping/diseases-of-italian-cypress-and-related-species-in-texas/

Thanks for the question

Paul Winski Replied April 15, 2021, 2:47 PM EDT
Paul:

Thank you for responding to my email so promptly.  

I will access both links and hope for the best.

Again, thanks a million for getting back to me.  It is sincerely appreciated.

Robert Nowotny



On Apr 15, 2021, at 1:47 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

The Question Asker Replied April 15, 2021, 3:14 PM EDT

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