Murraya Hedge Problems & How to Fix Them

Murraya paniculata, also known as orange jasmine or mock orange, is generally a hardy hedge plant. However, many gardeners encounter problems such as yellow leaves, sparse growth, or poor flowering. Understanding the cause makes it easier to bring your hedge back to full health.

Yellow Leaves on Murraya

Cause: Often due to nitrogen or iron deficiency, or poor soil drainage.
Solution: Apply a balanced NPK fertiliser with trace elements and check soil drainage.

Sparse Hedge Growth

Cause: Infrequent pruning and lack of fertiliser can leave gaps in the hedge.
Solution: Lightly prune 3–4 times per year and feed regularly. See our pruning guide.

Lack of Flowers

Cause: Incorrect fertiliser balance (too much nitrogen, not enough phosphorus/potassium) or pruning at the wrong time.
Solution: Fertilise with a balanced formula after flowering. Avoid pruning just before a bloom cycle.

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Environmental Stresses & Pests in Murraya Hedges

Sometimes Murraya problems are not just nutritional but environmental or pest-related. These issues need specific fixes:

Overwatering or Poor Drainage

Symptoms: Yellow, drooping leaves and root rot.
Fix: Improve soil drainage and reduce watering frequency.

Underwatering

Symptoms: Dry, brittle leaves and slowed growth during summer.
Fix: Deep water 1–2 times per week in hot weather.

Pests

Aphids & scale: Cause leaf curl and sticky residue. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars: Chew young leaves. Remove manually or spray with a safe biological control.

Soil & pH Problems

Issue: Murraya prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil. High alkalinity locks out iron and magnesium.
Fix: Apply fertiliser with trace elements and check soil pH (ideal range 6.0–6.5).

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FAQs on Murraya Hedge Problems

Q: Why is my Murraya hedge not flowering?
A: Likely due to high nitrogen or incorrect pruning. Prune after flowering and use a balanced fertiliser to encourage blooms.

Q: How do I thicken my Murraya hedge?
A: Regular light pruning and feeding will encourage new growth from the base.

Q: Why are my Murraya leaves going yellow?
A: Most often a nutrient deficiency or waterlogging. Apply an NPK fertiliser with micronutrients and improve drainage.

Q: Can Murraya recover from hard pruning?
A: Yes. In early spring, cut back by up to half. Fertilise and water well to encourage strong regrowth.

Q: How do I stop pests attacking Murraya?
A: Regular inspection, pruning of infested sections, and treatment with eco-friendly sprays keeps pests under control.

Final Tip

Most Murraya hedge problems can be solved with consistent pruning, correct watering, and feeding with CompleteGrow All Purpose NPK 20-20-20. This formula prevents nutrient deficiencies, supports flowering, and ensures a healthy, dense hedge all year.