Question From:
Bill Vella in Freeman’s reach, Freemans Reach NSW
Nature of problem:
I have large native ferns up to 4 metres high. They’ve been in the ground for the last 10 years. About 5 years ago I lost 2 and no-one could tell me the cause of them dying. Recently about 6 months ago I lost another one. Everytime we get new growth the leaves are shorter and shorter until eventually it dies. I’m noticing another one beginning to do the same.
Type of Plant (if known):
Tree Fern
Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself):
New growth has shorter and shorter leaves until it dies
Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type:
native bush setting with gumtress
How often do you water the plant:
At least once a week but there has been a lot of rain during the winter months
How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
Garden is on half an acre with high gum trees. We have all sorts of other plants so it receives filtered sunlight
What type of plant is it:
Tree Fern
How long since you planted it:
10 years
Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
Seamongass
Is the plant indoors or outdoors:
outdoors
What other treatments have you given the plant:
none
Upload photo if available:
photo.JPG
Other Comments:
Answer: Hi Bill. The only thing that I could guess is that the ground is made up of a water-repelling soil. Try some Seasol Super Soil Wetter watered well in by forking many many holes prior to application. Recovery may be very slow. Don.