Mugo- sick or just shedding normally? - Ask Extension
I’m wondering if my Mugo is sick or if this is normal. There was new growth on the ends this spring. Thank you!
Knowledgebase
Mugo- sick or just shedding normally? #869693
Asked May 22, 2024, 8:38 PM EDT
I’m wondering if my Mugo is sick or if this is normal. There was new growth on the ends this spring. Thank you!
Kent County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
The plant looks reasonably healthy, but what I recommend is to take a look at the root area around the plant. From these photos, it appears that the soil and mulch has eroded away from the plant and may be leaving some roots less protected. The soil also looks very dry. If the plants are raised above ground level, as they appear to be, you may need to grade more gradually away from the plant so that you provide more soil and mulch for the root system. Plants that have been installed relatively recently need more water than an established plant. The soil should feel like a wrung-out sponge. Not bone dry, and certainly not soggy, as that can cause issues too. Being raised also makes a plant more water-needy because of fast drainage.
If you see more of the tips dying despite remedying the root area, it may be a fungal issue. You are welcome to submit a new question with additional pictures later this season if you see this happening.
Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.
Ruth
The plant looks reasonably healthy, but what I recommend is to take a look at the root area around the plant. From these photos, it appears that the soil and mulch has eroded away from the plant and may be leaving some roots less protected. The soil also looks very dry. If the plants are raised above ground level, as they appear to be, you may need to grade more gradually away from the plant so that you provide more soil and mulch for the root system. Plants that have been installed relatively recently need more water than an established plant. The soil should feel like a wrung-out sponge. Not bone dry, and certainly not soggy, as that can cause issues too. Being raised also makes a plant more water-needy because of fast drainage.
If you see more of the tips dying despite remedying the root area, it may be a fungal issue. You are welcome to submit a new question with additional pictures later this season if you see this happening.
Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.
Ruth
