lilly pilly leaves turning brownโ
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Why Are My Lilly Pilly Leaves Turning Brown?
Lilly Pilly hedges are hardy, but they sometimes show stress through browning leaves. This can appear as dry, crispy tips, entire leaves browning, or patches within the hedge. The main causes are usually environmental stress, pests, or nutrient imbalance.
Common Causes
- Water stress: Too little water causes leaf scorch, while waterlogging suffocates roots.
- Sunburn: Newly planted or exposed leaves may burn in harsh summer sun.
- Psyllid pests: Tiny insects that damage leaves, leaving them distorted and brown.
- Fungal diseases: Root rot and leaf spot can cause browning and leaf drop.
- Nutrient deficiency: Lack of nitrogen, potassium, or trace elements weakens foliage.
Solutions for Browning Lilly Pilly Leaves
Most brown-leaf issues can be corrected with consistent care. Hereโs how to fix them:
1. Watering
- Water deeply 2โ3 times per week during hot months.
- Ensure good drainage โ avoid waterlogged soil.
2. Fertilising
Feed regularly with CompleteGrow All Purpose NPK 20-20-20. In-ground plants benefit from feeding every 6โ8 weeks, while potted plants need liquid feed every 2โ4 weeks. This restores foliage colour and resilience.
3. Pest & Disease Control
- Check under leaves for psyllids or scale insects. Use horticultural oil sprays if needed.
- Prune out diseased or damaged branches.
- Improve air circulation around hedges to prevent fungal issues.
4. Sun & Climate Protection
- Provide shade cloth for young hedges during extreme heatwaves.
- Mulch to keep soil cool and moist.
FAQs on Brown Leaves in Lilly Pilly
Q: Why are the tips of my Lilly Pilly leaves turning brown?
A: This is usually water stress โ either too dry or too wet. Adjust watering and check soil drainage.
Q: My hedge has brown patches โ could it be pests?
A: Yes. Psyllids and scale insects commonly cause browning. Inspect leaves closely and treat with horticultural oil if needed.
Q: Will fertiliser fix brown leaves?
A: Yes, if the browning is nutrient-related. Feeding with CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 improves colour and resilience, especially after pruning.
Q: Can I cut off brown leaves?
A: Yes. Removing damaged leaves reduces stress and encourages fresh regrowth.
Q: How do I prevent brown leaves long-term?
A: Consistent care โ deep watering, regular feeding, pruning, and pest checks โ prevents most browning issues.
Final Tip
Lilly Pilly hedges recover quickly from browning with the right care. Keep a routine of watering, pruning, and fertilising with CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20, and your hedge will return to lush, glossy green in no time.
More Hedge Guides from CompleteGrow
- Best Fertiliser for Lilly Pilly Hedges
- How to Grow Lilly Pilly Hedges in Australia
- When to Prune Lilly Pilly Hedges
- How Fast Does Lilly Pilly Grow?
- How Tall Do Lilly Pillies Grow?
- How to Thicken a Lilly Pilly Hedge
- How to Grow Lilly Pilly from Cuttings
- Do Lilly Pilly Have Invasive Roots?
- How to Prune Lilly Pilly
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