Q.CEANOTHUS Gone Dry And Crispy
We were given a Ceanothus in October. About 5ft tall in a pot with cane. It has been on sheltered patio since in pot. Started looking sorry for itself. Drooping leaves. All green but dry and crispy. Signs of flower heads but they’re dry too. Have now planted in ground and hoping it will revive but looks worse!!. Complete novice gardeners. Some advice says they go like this with too much water and some say with not enough! Help! (Gift was from next door neighbour!!)
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It could be a watering issue. Also, does it get any sun on the patio? The move to inground should help if it is in full sun. It might be experiencing transplant shock on top of the dry leaves. I suspect the leaves will fall off and new ones will grow. You can scrape off some of the stem and see if it is green underneath. If it is, the stems are still alive.
They are susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot disease. If the plant was overwatered, it could be root rot. Did you notice any mushy roots when you replanted? If so, it may not recover.
Here are growing tips:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/ceanothus/caring-for-ceanothus-soapbush.htm
https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/popular/ceanothus/growing-guide
