"The Lady Gardener" wrote in message
...
I have an old citrus tree that has been in decline for a couple of years,
but has no obvious pest.

Extremities are dying off and there is a dead wood in the middle of the
tree.

The bark is discoloured, but not with spot like areas. THe fruit on this
tree is not palitable even when it does produce.

It is very close to a callistomen - but has been for over 30 years without
harmful side effects.

We want to preserve the tree for privacy rather than any other reason, so
fruit crops are not important.

Any ideas on possible reasons for its decline?

Joanne in Perth



If you want to try to save it then a full renovation is probably required.

1) Prune ASAP removing all dead/damaged/tangled wood. If very thick and
congested remove some branches to open it out to the sun. Remove grass and
weeds from under the tree. Then mulch 5cm deep from 10cm away from the
trunk out to the extent of branches.
2) Feed with citrus food mid September or whenever Spring growth is
apparently well under way in your garden and again in December or January.
3) Water regularly especially in Spring and Summer, water extra if it has
been very hot and dry.

David