Question From:
LEETA BOBART in JUNORTOUN, BENDIGO VIC
Nature of problem:
a lot of leaves appear to be ‘burnt’
Type of Plant (if known):
pyrus ussuriensis
Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself):
I have two of these trees, in near proximity. One is fine, the other has a large percentage of damaged leaves (see attached photo).
Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type:
(horrible) silty clay with extremely weathered siltstone
How often do you water the plant:
regularly during hot weather, rarely during colder months
How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
Both trees are in full sun
What type of plant is it:
Manchurian Pear
How long since you planted it:
four years
Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
at the beginning, with Dynamic Lifter and Seasol
Is the plant indoors or outdoors:
outdoors
What other treatments have you given the plant:
nothing
Upload photo if available:
2015 Feb damaged ornamental pear.JPG
Other Comments:
I want to plant an avenue of trees and thought this was maybe the toughest available for our poor conditions (soil and weather), but am concerned about whatever is affecting one already planted. Any suggestions or alternative plantings would be most welcome.
Answer: Hi Leeta, this appears to be leaf burn caused by shortage of available water. This can be caused by either root rot or by dry soil. Water the plant for about 5-10 minutes then dig a few small holes 20-30cm from the trunk – maybe 10cm in diameter and 10 cm deep. If the soil is still dry get some Seasol Super Soil Wetter and apply it to the surrounding soil. The next day put a sprinkler on the plant for 30 mins or so. Maybe even use a fork to make holed in the ground.
If the soil is VERY wet, maybe get some Yates Anti Rot to fix any root rot. Don
