Question
I have a Norfolk Pine that had two main trunks. One whole portion of the tree died. It started getting black on the tips, the tips curled down slightly and then all of the branches on that stalk dried out completely like a 2 month old dead Christmas tree. I noticed that the other trunk was still alove so I cut the dead trunk out. That was 1-2 months ago and now the second trunk is getting the same symptoms. I can not see any specific pests on the tree.
Do you have any ideas as to what it is & what to do?


Answer
Hi Joann,

Once the first trunk goes, the second is almost sure to follow. That is because both are living in the same environment and are affected more or less the same.

Most likely it is a root-related problem. Keeping the soil too moist, repotting into a larger pot, and poor soil quality can all cause the symptoms that you described. One other possibility is inadequate light. Pests are not the problem.

Norfolk pines do best in small pot with their roots left undisturbed. They must be right in front of a window to get enough light. The soil should be quite porous with extra perlite added. The top quarter of the soil should dry out in between thorough waterings.

Given the length of time that your plant has exhibited these symptoms without your taking any remedial action, it is unlikley that the plant can be salvaged at this point. However, I could tell better if you were to e-mail a photo of it to me at the address below my name.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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