How to treat withering Lily Pilly?

[RickyL]

There is a patch of withering and this withering seems to be gradually expanding.
Is it "Verticillium Wilt" ? Can it be saved?


BTW The following is last year's photo, I have been using Yates' Cooper and Mavrik. There has been a noticeable improvement, but as i said recently there has been a withering.

 

[EricL]

Hello @RickyL 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about your lilly pilly.

The withering patch on your tree could be caused by several factors, including Verticillium Wilt, but also sunburn, pest damage, root stress, or fungal infections. Verticillium Wilt typically causes sudden wilting and dieback, often affecting one side of the plant first, with leaves turning yellow or brown and branches dying back over time.

How to Check for Verticillium Wilt:
 

• Cut a small branch from the affected area and check the cross-section for dark brown or black streaks in the wood (vascular tissue).
   
• If these streaks are present, it's likely Verticillium Wilt, which is a soil-borne fungus that clogs the plant’s water transport system.
   
• Unfortunately, there is no direct cure for Verticillium Wilt, but trees can sometimes survive if they are otherwise healthy and managed well.
   

What You Can Do:
 

• Prune Affected Areas – Remove the dead and dying branches well below the damaged sections to stop the spread. Sterilize pruning tools between cuts with a diluted bleach solution or methylated spirits to prevent spreading disease.
   
• Improve Soil Health – If Verticillium Wilt is suspected, focus on soil health. Apply a balanced organic fertilizer (such as Seasol Seaweed Tonic) to boost the plant’s immunity. Mulching with compost can also help beneficial microbes outcompete the fungus.
   
• Deep Watering & Drainage – Ensure deep watering during dry periods but avoid overwatering. Poor drainage can weaken roots and make them more susceptible to infections.
   
• Check for Other Causes – Examine the trunk and branches for signs of borers or fungal growth. If sunburn is a factor (e.g., if the exposed side faces strong afternoon sun), providing some shade during extreme heat could help.

Let me call on our experienced plant specialist @Noelle for their opinion.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric