Weak Pomegranate Trees?

Question

Hi- I have 8 small Pomos, and don’t understand why 3 are “weak” and late leafers, while the others are strong and healthy. I’m including two pics- one of a healthy tree in the foreground and what I mean by “weak” in the back ground. The other pic is a close-up of the weaker tree. These weaker trees get the same sun, same rain, and largely the same watering during the summer. They were all planted at the same time at the same maturity from the same grower. I did overdo my pruning this winter, but again all the trees got the same treatment and 5 are leafing well. I notice the weaker trees have some larger dead branches, and one has yellow lichen on the dead branch. I know that moles/gophers are around… but what should I look for? Should I fertilize and water more, or is this a sign of over-watering? Thanks in advance for any advice you can give.

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Answer 1

Over-watering can be a likely cause, but I believe that the gophers will do far more damage to them. These pests will destroy almost anything planted in the ground, either for food, or because it is in their path for tunneling. I would look to controlling them first, and pruning out any dead branches. Stop the damage, and it will likely recover with time.

This article will help with the control of gophers: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/eliminate-gophers.htm