Old Scribbly Gum Dropping Branches

Question From: 
Fred Gibbs in  Lugarno,  Sydney NSW

 

Nature of problem: 
A scribbly gum about 60-80 years old is dropping both dead and live branches. A neighbour cut away 30% of the roots

 

Type of Plant (if known): 
Scribbly gum

 

Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself): 
30% root loss and 50% canopy loss on one side

 

Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type: 
poor clay and rock 300m from Georges River

 

How often do you water the plant:
Never

 

How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
Fully exposed all day

 

What type of plant is it:
The droppings are seed, individual leaves, twigs, dead branches, live branche clusters with live leaves & bark

 

How long since you planted it:
Not known

 

Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
No

 

Is the plant indoors or outdoors: 
Outdoors

 

What other treatments have you given the plant: 
None

Upload photo if available: 

Other Comments: 
S.E.S. staff who attend tree fall-overs tell me that the tree is stressed.
Falling limbs range from 50mm to 100mm diameter and may be dead or live limbs.

Enjoyed your programs, best regards.

 

Answer: Fred you need to get a qualified Arborist in to inspect the tree. If it is a remnant from the original bush, it may be dying. Scribblies don’t cope well with gardens and houses being put in nearby. A qualified Arborist will notice things that you or an SES worker might miss.  Get help soon.  Don