Q -A Carolina jasmine planted on the east side of a 6' wood fence has half green leaves and half brown leaves. New growth is green. Two other jasmines planted on the north side of the perpendicular fence look fine. All plants are 5 years old and this is the first time to have brown leaves. What is the problem?
Thank you.
Peggy Kissell
Do any gardeners have the answer?
I would venture to say that the stem on the dead section of the plant has been split or cracked by foot traffic or the ever pesty chipmunk. Often rodents will'girdle'or chew away the base of plants looking for food or water. Once this happens a plant can no longer move food and water from its roots up into the plant, thus causing die back. Check around the base of your plant and see if there is damage.
For maintenance: remove dead section of the plant and fertilize with a root stimulator fertilizer. This will promote new feeder roots, strengthening the plant which will, in time, sprout new shoots to replace the old ones.
Posted by: Ellen LeBlond | August 9, 2006 12:57 PM
I would almost have to visit your residence and see the problem in person. If you want I can come by if your in the Memphis area and look at the jasmine.Just let me know when itsd a good time to stop by. Im always traveling the area so its no problem. I may end up learning something new myself.
Posted by: Michael McPeak | July 17, 2006 07:02 PM
