Case 1

Plant Dieback

Introduction

Plant dieback refers to a plant’s progressive loss of vitality and growth. Plant dieback is observed as the gradual death of plant parts such as roots and branches. It is more commonly observed in woody plants. Plant dieback is commonly attributed to reasons such as lack of nutrients, diseases or extremely hot weather.

It is commonly attributed to reasons such as lack of nutrients, diseases or extremely hot weather. The dieback condition can cause plants to either die a year or two after the first symptoms appear, or in other cases, to survive indefinitely.

Preventive Measures

• Sufficient watering depending on plant root system depth
• Appropriate well draining soil type to allow for water to reach lower root system
• Periodical fertilization
• Pruning of diseased plant parts to prevent spreading of infection

Corrective Measures

In the case of plant dieback, prevention is a better than subsequent treatment. Ensuring that sufficient water reach the lower roots is vital. The soil utilized should adequately allow for water flow to the lower regions of the root systems rather than flowing off the top. Pruning of dead and diseased plant parts should be done as soon as possible. Upon doing so, chemical treatment agents (e.g. fungicide) can be applied to the soil around the leaves and base of the plant or as per manufacturer instructions.