Reviving Your Orange Jessamine

If you’re witnessing sections of your Orange Jessamine (Mock Orange or Murraya Paniculata) turning brown and dying, it can be disheartening.

In this short article we will explore the primary cause behind this issue and provide actionable steps to revive your fading hedge.

The Culprit: Borer Infestations

While issues like insufficient water, black spot/scale, and nutrient deficiency can affect your mock orange hedges, the main reason for browning and dying sections in Queensland is often borer infestations. These pesky critters create tiny holes in the trunks, compromising the health and aesthetics of your hedge. But don’t worry! This problem is treatable and manageable with the right approach.

Reviving Your Dying Hedge: A Step-by-Step Guide

The good news is that you can revive your dying hedge with the right steps.

At 1300 4 Gardening, we’ve encountered this issue numerous times and have successfully treated it for our Queensland customers over the past 20 years.

Here’s our recommended approach:

1. Trim: Start by trimming away all dead, dry, or dying parts of the hedge, making sure you reach healthy growth near the trunk. This step helps remove the affected areas and stimulates new growth.
2. Treatment: Apply Initiator slow-release pellets and/or spray Cocky 200 SC liquid as specified in the product instructions. These treatments effectively combat borers and put a stop to their destructive impact. Follow the guidelines carefully for safe and efficient application.
3. Fertilise: Aid the recovery and regrowth of your hedge by fertilising it with a quality product like Eco88. This will provide essential nutrients to support healthy plant development and rejuvenation.
4. Water: Ensure your hedge receives optimal hydration by watering it daily after treatment and fertilisation. Adequate watering promotes the recovery process. Keep up with regular watering for at least two weeks after fertilisation to maximise effectiveness.

Patience and Recovery

Reviving a dying mock orange hedge requires patience, as the revival process takes time.

Depending on your location in Queensland and the prevailing weather conditions, you can expect to see regrowth within 4 to 8 weeks after eliminating and treating the borers.

Full coverage and a revitalised appearance can be anticipated within approximately six months.

Don’t lose hope if your Murraya paniculata hedge is browning and dying in Queensland.

By identifying borer infestations as the likely cause and taking prompt action, you can revive your hedge and restore its health and beauty. Remember to trim, treat, fertilise, and water your hedge accordingly.

With time and care, your Orange Jessamine hedge will bounce back, once again showcasing its vibrant foliage and fragrant flowers.