Pom Pom Blue Cypress Balls Turned Brown On One Branch

Question

I cut 3 balls off last fall and now the remaining 3 balls have turned brown on the same branch Should I remove the whole branch?

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Answer 1

Browning can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, poor drainage, or fungal disease. Try to figure out why they are browning and correct the deficiency. Also inspect the foliage for pests such as aphids or spider mites. I can see browning starting in other balls. These topiaries need well-draining, moist, acidic soil in full sun to part shade. Water deeply when you water. Do not water again till the top of the soil starts to dry out, once or twice a week.

I can see some green among the brown balls. Try to lightly shear the brown balls, they may not be dead. You also can scrape off some of the bark on the stems to see if they are green underneath. If so, they are still alive. If you determine the branch is diseased, then cut it off. You don't want to leave stubs. These trees are susceptible to root rot and juniper blight. You can take a sample to your local extension office to see if they can identify a disease.

These articles should help:

https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/chamaecyparis-pisifera-boulevard/

https://hgic.clemson.edu/hot-topic/drying-up-root-and-crown-rot-pathogens/

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/juniper/juniper-twig-blight-disease.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/spider-mite-control.htm