Kumquat Trees

Question

My Kumguat trees seem to be dying. They are 10 to 11 years old and were doing well, with the exception of a few leaves falling off, but nothing major. This winter I had to cut two tree trunks out of two trees, because they had died. The trees are planted approx. (5) feet apart and do have blooms in the spring and small fruit sometimes. My neighbor had cut a big pine tree down about (20) feet away last fall. I was wondering if they were going through a big shock. I do have a photo of some of the trees. My game plan is to cut limbs that are dying out of the trees. I live right on the coast of NC.

Answer 1

“I want to say it’s either fungal or pest related. Many types of fungus affect these trees as do many insect pests, all of which can lead to symptoms like this. Generally, a liquid copper fungicide and removal of dead growth/leaves helps with most fungal issues. Getting rid of fallen debris helps take care of any spores that could reinfect or spread the disease. In addition, check the roots for signs of rot. I would also check for pests, like aphids, mites or scale. In large groups, these insects can quickly damage trees, sucking the sap from them. A good indication of their presence (other than seeing them) would be sticky-like sap on the trees, or even dripping from them. Neem oil is an effective (and organic) insecticide and will actually double as a fungicide should you want to use it to combat any fungal problems too. The following articles may also help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/aphids-tree-disease.htm , https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/common-mites-affecting-plants.htm , https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/citrus/citrus-mite-problems.htm , https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/citrus/controlling-citrus-scale.htm ,
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/problems/pests/neem-oil-uses.htm ”