Sarcococca leaf drop - Ask Extension
My Sarcococca ruscifolia dropped most of its leaves during the January freeze. It is nearly May and they show no signs of leafing out again. Should ...
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Sarcococca leaf drop #866474
Asked April 30, 2024, 1:17 PM EDT
My Sarcococca ruscifolia dropped most of its leaves during the January freeze. It is nearly May and they show no signs of leafing out again. Should they be pruned, fertilized, or left alone?
Clackamas County Oregon
Expert Response
Sarcococca were hit hard by the freeze this winter and I’m sorry yours is one of them. They are generally a popular and successful shrub in our area.
It is May and most plants are showing signs of growth even if this winter’s freeze damage was severe. For instance, my hardy Fuchsia has new leaves at ground level although the whole top is brittle and stems are brown throughout. I will cut it to the ground before new branches grow and by August it will be blooming as usual.
Is your plant still alive? Are the stems green and pliable? Cut a branch or scratch the bark to look for signs of life. If alive and you’re willing to wait, then give it more time to regrow. Dead branches can be removed. Fertilizing is not advised because new growth can be encouraged at the expense of the energy stored in the roots.
Many of these shrubs defoliated this winter and I have not heard how most are doing. Some gardeners will get tired of waiting and replace the plants. If you choose to buy new ones, ask at your nursery when shipments are available. Some evergreen shrubs are only available for one season and you won’t want to miss your chance.
It is May and most plants are showing signs of growth even if this winter’s freeze damage was severe. For instance, my hardy Fuchsia has new leaves at ground level although the whole top is brittle and stems are brown throughout. I will cut it to the ground before new branches grow and by August it will be blooming as usual.
Is your plant still alive? Are the stems green and pliable? Cut a branch or scratch the bark to look for signs of life. If alive and you’re willing to wait, then give it more time to regrow. Dead branches can be removed. Fertilizing is not advised because new growth can be encouraged at the expense of the energy stored in the roots.
Many of these shrubs defoliated this winter and I have not heard how most are doing. Some gardeners will get tired of waiting and replace the plants. If you choose to buy new ones, ask at your nursery when shipments are available. Some evergreen shrubs are only available for one season and you won’t want to miss your chance.
