Q.dwarf kaffir lime tree growing black leaves
It is spring in Sydney, Australia and I have a dwarf Kaffir lime tree in a pot and it is growing new leaves that are completely black. The remaining tree has perfect glossy leaves. What on earth could this be? I gave the tree a sprinkling of chicken manure pellets and feed it a seaweed solution every once in a while. It was potted with a mixture of citrus potting mix and certified organic potting mix for vegetables. Any suggestions appreciated.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Unfortunately, things like this are very difficult to pin down without photos. If you want to start a new question, it will let you add photos. If you KNOW that it is not sooty mold for sure, then we can rule that out. From here, it could be overwatering, fungal infection, nutrient deficiency, OR nutrient excess- This can be ruled out with a soil test. Unfortunately, without seeing it and the conditions around, it will be very difficult to give a straightforward answer. However, testing the soil would be the first thing that I would do. This may help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm
I know its a long time ago but did you ever find an answer?
I have exactly the same problem. New leaves shiny black. Its not sooty mould, for sure.
This is Sooty Mold.
Here is a link that will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/how-to-get-rid-of-sooty-mold.htm
