What type of pests invade the Eugenia plant? I have two potted Eugenia round balls that were outdoors all summer and did beautifully. I brought them indoors in late fall before the temperatures dropped below what they can tolerate. Both were doing fine until one started to drop it’s lower leaves. Both plants are separated but both are in full sun and watered as needed. I also mist them once a day b/c of the heat being on. One continues to be fine but the other continues to drop its lower leaves which have shriveled and died. I see no evidence of a disease or pests. Any advice? Will the one affected bush be able to be saved?
I fear that being inside, even misting them, it is too dry for them. You may be battling this issue until you are able to put them outside again. You can try misting them multiple times per day, but you should also take care not to overwater. They will need much less indoors. Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings, and too much water will likely lead to root rot.
Here is an article for more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/eugenia/growing-eugenia-plants.htm
Can anyone please help me identify the pest? And best way to handle it. TIA
This is a common sign or either aphids or scale bugs. You can spray the plant with Neem oil, when it is not in bright light.
This collection of articles will give you more information on crafting your own insect remedies, along with many other helpful tips: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/
Can eugenia topiary be planted in the ground in its container in zone 7 for removal in the winter?
Yes, this sounds like a good plan for your Eugenia. Just make sure to dig it up and bring it indoors before temperatures fall down to 25 F. You'll probably need to repot it every 3 years or so. There's a chance it may someday get too big to lift in and out of the ground, but for now this system should work well.
Here's some more information on Eugenia growing in and out of containers:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/eugenia/growing-eugenia-plants.htm
You will need to build or purchase a frame and cover it on sub-freezing nights/days with clear plastic.
Eugenia planted a year ago in pots on deck for privacy but they don't grow enough leaves and remain "see through". The tops have been trimmed back with no appreciable effect. Help.
There are many species of these. Some are shrub forms, and some are tree forms. It looks like what you have is a tree form. They can tolerate quite a bit of pruning, and need it to stay shorter. The type that you have may not be a compact growing shrub, and may be difficult to force into a compact shape.
It can be even more difficult to grow these in container. They can be slightly picky about the soil type, and especially picky about light. They require partial shade, so if that area gets too much sun, then this can prevent proper growth as well.
This article will help with the care of these: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/eugenia/growing-eugenia-plants.htm
Would like to stop this spreading to the other trees...
Those are a type of insect known as "scale". These are very aggressive, and develop a shell to protect it from pesticides. You will have to scrape off as many as you can and then treat with something such as neem oil, or other insecticides.
This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/control-plant-scale.htm
Are the seeds of the Eugenia tree toxic to animals?
I reviewed the lists from the SPCA and found no reference to toxicity of Eugenia spp for dogs, cats or horses.
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/e?&
But there are over 1000 species in the genus Eugenia, so it would be best if you were more specific in your identification of the tree and type of animal that you are concerned about.
I have eaten fruit of Eugenia myrtifolia, Australian Brush Cherry many times. It's sour and I wouldn't want to eat more than a few, but I experienced no sickness. If an animal were to gorge on them and eat the hard seed core, then it may develop problems that aren't necessarily toxicity.
It's always best to check with a local vet or animal welfare organization in your area.