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What's wrong with the plum tree?

NoryNory Posts: 7
edited May 2023 in Plants
Hi everyone, 

We have a plum tree which had a lot of nice blossom on this year but now looks like it's dying! There were a couple of black patches on some branches a few months ago, but I didn't cut them off because we were still getting frosts. Now the leaves are dying, but the black patches haven't got any worse - there are loads of green bugs on it, and I assumed the white bits came off the blossom but could they be something to do with the bugs?

Wondering if anyone can tell what the issue is and whether we should cut the tree down or whether it might come back next year... 

Thanks :) 


Posts

  • bertrand-mabelbertrand-mabel Posts: 2,697
    It looks like a white fly infestation. You could try spraying with a soapy solution all over the tree and make sure that the tree is well watered. It does look sorry for itself. Others may come up with a better solution.
  • NoryNory Posts: 7
    Thanks @bertrand-mabel - if it's whitefly and we treat it, is the tree likely to grow back next year as normal, or is damage permanent? 
  • GardenerSuzeGardenerSuze Posts: 5,692
    @Nory Aphids suck the sap out of the leaves and cause them to curl or die. I think it is white fly which is similar. Just to be sure are they actual insects or is it possible that you are looking at the remains of where they have hatched. Just the remains nothing to worry about. Insects, I would gently try to wash off. 

    The damage is not permanent leaves will grow back normally next year. It could be planted in a rain shadow, if that is the case you will need to be careful it has enough water as @bertrand-mabel mention. Lack of water and dry conditions cause stress, a stressed plant with new soft leaves is open to attack.
    Next year I would be vigilant rub them off and keep checking to avoid a full infestation.
    Aphids and White fly can sometimes carry viruses and that is what you want to avoid. 
    I have worked as a Gardener for 24 years. My latest garden is a new build garden on heavy clay.
  • NoryNory Posts: 7
    Hi @GardenerSuze, thanks for your advice. On close inspection they look like the remains of hatchlings rather than actual bugs. There are lots and lots of tiny green bugs all over the tree though.

    It's planted up against a west-facing garage wall (by the house's previous owners), surrounded by patio and with chives underneath, so yes it could be that it doesn't get enough water there! 
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