Wattle For Cold Climates

Question From: 
Brian Stocks in  Willow Tree,  Willow Tree NSW

Nature of problem: 
i’m after a suitable wattle or wattle’s the temp can get down to -9

Type of Plant (if known): 
Wattle

Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself): 
it gets some sort of bug in it around the hole is sawdust like wood

Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type: 
clay

How often do you water the plant:
never

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

What type of plant is it:
wattle

How long since you planted it:
20 years

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

Is the plant indoors or outdoors: 
outdoor

What other treatments have you given the plant: 
tried to kill the bug with a bug poison

Upload photo if available: 
IMG_2370[2].jpg 2.jpg

Other Comments: 
i planted this wattle about 20 years ago for the birds and bees but the grub in the tree is very annoying and it is slowly killing the wattle i want a wattle or a few different wattles that doesn’t get a grub in it we live right on the New England Hwy if you could help this would be great thank you Brian

Answer:  Hi Brian,  The Grub is not killing the wattle at all. It is dying of old age – most wattles are quite short-lived. They are referred to as ‘Pioneer Species’, ie they colonise disturbed areas in nature, then die. The grub is just beginning to recycle the wood waste. Please don’t ever use toxic chemicles to kill these grubs as they are often eaten by black cockatoos and other bird species – the chemical that you use might kill the birds. Buy a new wattle from a local nursery as they will know the best ones for your area.  Don