Question
Hi Stephen

When I moved into my home (approx 10 years ago) I planted a green beech hedge as a boarder in the back garden. By and large this has done well until recently, despite the spacing being too great in the middle (I ran out of saplings).

However, this year it has become apparent that one "tree" appears to have died, retaining last years leaves and not sprouting any new. The twigs are dry and brittle with no obvious sign of life. A second plant has put on some leaf, but it is scant and some of the few leaves appear to have brown patches. The two plants are not adjacent.

Do you have any suggestions what the problem might be? The other sections are good and both ends of the hedge are doing well despite the slight slope from one end to the other.

I have wondered whether it was a water problem (for once we have a dry summer in UK) but with some sections doing well that does seem implausible.

Any thoughts very welcome.

Answer
Nigel:
There are several possibilities, however it would be best for someone to see and examine an actual "patient" to be sure. Water, as you mentioned, could be an issue. Check the declining plant over closely for any bark damage near the base of the plant. Look for any other obvious signs of injury to the major and minor stems also. If nothing is visible on the stems, there may be an issue with the roots, such as water or even a root disease. If possible, try to remove all of the dead portions and discard.

Regards
Steve