Our Houhere Sexosytlus Tree Is Shedding Leaves Nearly All The Time. Why?

Question

4/5 year old New Zealand evergreen tree. Cannot see any infestation, but seems to be thinning out mostly on upper part of tree. Also fewer flowers. Can we trim canopy?

Answer 1

It could be stressed due to an environmental problem or fungal or pest infection. Also, it could be getting too much or too little water. If it has been dry lately, a tree may drop its leaves to conserve moisture. Some broadleaf evergreens will lose leaves in spring to make room for new leaves, a natural occurrence. You can check the leaves for spots, which would could mean a fungal or bacterial infection. These trees also can suffer cold damage during the winter.

You can trim the canopy if there is any dead or diseased wood. You can do this at any time. These articles should help:

https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/hoheria-sexstylosa/

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/plant-dropping-leaves.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/bacterial-leaf-spot.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/plant-leaf-spots.htm