Citrus dieback: why branches dry from the tip
Why lemon, lime and orange branches dry from the tip back, the common causes, and how growers can save declining trees.
Citrus dieback, where branches dry from the tip back, has several causes: root rot from poor drainage, nutrient shortages such as zinc, pests and old age. Fixing the root zone and nutrition comes before pruning dry branches.
Common causes
- Root rot and gummosis in wet soil.
- Zinc, iron and other micronutrient shortage, especially in alkaline soil.
- Pests such as bark borers.
- Old, neglected trees.
What growers can do
- Improve drainage; keep water off the trunk.
- Test soil and leaves for nutrient shortage.
- Prune dead wood back to healthy tissue.
- Feed the tree and build soil organic matter.
See the full citrus guide and Immunity Citrus Special.
Written by Gafar Laiya, founder of Gujarat Bio Organics, working with farmers since 2006. Results differ from farm to farm with soil, weather, crop and management. Farmer experiences on this site are their own reports, not a promise of results.
Questions
Should I cut the dry branches?
Yes, prune back to healthy wood, but also find the cause, or the dieback will return.
Send us your enquiry
Tell us your crop, the problem and your location, and send a photo if you can. Our team replies on WhatsApp or calls you with what to check, which product suits and where to buy it near you.