Silver Dollar Eucalyptus – Dying? Fungus? Beetle?

Question

I moved to Oxnard, CA (at the beach) a few months ago (I am a renter/duplex). I think the trees in the yard here are Silver Dollar Gum. The landscaping is almost all succulents, which I have been decapitating/propagating as they were extremely “leggy” and uncared for. The trees had about an inch of leaves on the ground as there was no regular maintenance that I could tell. I have gathered and filled over 8 very large lawn n’ leaf bags of these leaves and keep patrolling for removal (a CONSTANT job!). The leaves are brown all around the edges and several large branches of these trees appear to be dead or dying. I noticed “C” shaped white grubs in the soil when digging (about 1/2-1″ long and appeared to be alive but not doing anything/dormant?).

All the research I’ve done so far says the trees could have a beetle infestation (nothing can be done on a homeowner level) that is affecting this whole area of So. CA. Since I am just a renter and don’t have funds to put toward major help for these trees, I am wondering what I might be able to do, if anything? I’m hoping that by looking at the images you might be able to help me identify the problem(s) and confirm the tree species. Any help is appreciated. FYI: This is an old beach cottage built in 1950 and I’ve heard from the handyman who was here that the landlord does not want to invest any more money into the property (which would probably include the trees!).

Thank you! ~Kathy

Answer 1

The tree issues could be a number of diseases that can effect the Eucalyptus Trees.
The links below may help with diagnosis and possible treatment.

http://totoagriculture.org/PDFs/PlantDiseasesPests/640.pdf
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/eucalyptus/tips-growing-eucalyptus.htm
Grub Worms can be dealt with in a few different ways.
The link below will help you.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/get-rid-of-grub-worms.htm