Is my grass tree dying…again

9 months ago

Hi, last year I planted 2 grasstrees about 5mt apart. one of them is thriving, the other one died after about 10 months with exactly the same amount of water and care. Last month I replaced the dead tree and the new one also seems to be dying. I’ve attached a pic of the older tree that’s doing well and the new one that’s struggling. Can anyone tell me from these photos whether this tree looks to be dying or is it just stress feom replanting. The first time I planted the trees I was told to water them each for about 5 mins each day for the first month or so. This time I was told not to water them at all. I‘m really confused here, any advice would be apprecisted. Thanks.

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Comments (13)

Julie Herbert
9 months ago
If you google‘why is my grass tree dying’ you will get great advice.. hope this helps.
siriuskey
9 months ago
Love love Grass Trees, this might help

https://www.designertrees.com.au/how-to-take-care-of-a-grass-tree/
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bigreader
9 months ago
If everything above ground is the same, below ground may be your problem. Is there more clay/sand/rubble/contamination under one?
Grant Webb
Original Author
9 months ago
No they’re in identical soil in the same garden bed. Thanks for the thought.
siriuskey
9 months ago
It seems that they are not happy with the soil and conditions, so quick action is needed to save them, good luck
Grant Webb
Original Author
9 months ago
Thanks all for your helpful comments. I’m going to try Seasol and worshiping the tree-gods. Surely a bit of voodoo helps.
Julie Herbert
9 months ago
I notice the unwell grass tree is planted next to a large palm or yucca, it looks different to the other palms, can’t quite see, this could be sucking moisture from the soil, worth a thought , it may be why this grass tree is struggling .
Grant Webb
Original Author
9 months ago
Thanks Julie, I’ve tested the soil (stuck my hand in) and both trees seem the same
dreamer
9 months ago
The palm in your garden looks like a cotton palm. They are classed as a weed in Western Australia and are harmful to native plants. Maybe that is what is causing the issue. Appears there are a couple in your garden. The attached articles may be helpful.

https://www.bushlandperth.org.au/weeds/cotton-palm/

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/grass-tree-pests-and-diseases?page=0,2
bigreader
9 months ago
A grass tree is an investment. Rather than just using your hand I’d invest in a moisture metre and some acidic/alkaline strips. Both are available from Bunnings and will give you an accurate read on your soil conditions.
Julie Herbert
9 months ago
Just check also the other large palm hasn’t any invasive roots that’s encroaching on your grass tree, it does seem like it’s an underground/ soil problem as it happened to your previous grass tree, hopefully you can find a solution, they really are a stunning addition to the garden.
Grant Webb
Original Author
9 months ago
Thanks again all. The palm is a Livistona although it does look a bit like a cotton palm so I understand the confusion. Yes I should make the 5km trip to Bunnings and get some proper soil measurement equipment but I’ve gone the lazy option and arranged for the local nursery to come and do it tomorrow. Fingers crossed it’s all good.
Julie Herbert
9 months ago
That’s a great idea , yes definitely fingers crossed for you.

Is my grass tree dying…again

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Julie Herbert

siriuskey

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