Question
We've moved to this house in Key Largo 5 years ago. There is a key lime tree next to the house, half in the shade from the palm leaves. The tree has never bared much fruit but for the last year it started loosing it's leaves, it's really almost bold by now. I've looked for insects and any discoloration but did not see any. The only strange sign is that all the leaves are sort of folded in and with a lace-like edges.
Also: I planted a ficus hedge, yes, 5 years ago, what was I thinking! I have a never-ending invasion of, if I can spell it correctly, cuban laurel bug. The only thing that worked so far is Ortho, but it's not a permanent solution and not very environmentally (or human) friendly. Any suggestions?
Thanks, Dee

Answer
Hi Dee Zee, You are loosing your leaves because you are not watering it enough.  Water brings fruit and flowers.  It will loose leaves in the center of the plant before it blooms and fruits, but the end leaves will remain green.  Cut off the dead branches.  It also has leaf minor that is on all citrus in FL, it is a pest that will stop curling the leaves when it gets colder and then start again when it gets warm again in the summer.  

On your citrus and cuban laurel you could use 100 % Pure Neem Oil spray which is organic and does not wash off for protection from insects.  It builds up over time and is also a fungicide and miticide for use on other plants.  It is the only product I use at my nursery and we love it.  kathy