Troubleshooting
Blue Giant Sequoia problems — and how to fix them
Blue Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum 'Glaucum') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Sequoia pitch moth (Synanthedon sequoiae)
Larvae bore into the bark, causing masses of pitch and resin to exude from entry points. Maintain tree vigour through good soil and watering practices; healthy trees are more resistant. Remove and destroy affected bark in winter.
Needle scorch and tip-burn
Occurs on young trees in exposed, hot, or very dry sites; brown needle tips appear in late summer. Shelter young specimens from desiccating winds, maintain soil moisture, and mulch well.
Siting errors (too small a space)
Frequently planted in gardens without accounting for the eventual immense size. The root system and crown spread of mature trees can damage structures and outcompete neighbouring plants. Always site with full consideration of its ultimate dimensions.
Prevent blue giant sequoia problems before they start
Most blue giant sequoia issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Blue Giant Sequoia problems — FAQ
Why is my blue giant sequoia sequoia pitch moth (synanthedon sequoiae)?
Larvae bore into the bark, causing masses of pitch and resin to exude from entry points. Maintain tree vigour through good soil and watering practices; healthy trees are more resistant. Remove and destroy affected bark in winter.
Why is my blue giant sequoia needle scorch and tip-burn?
Occurs on young trees in exposed, hot, or very dry sites; brown needle tips appear in late summer. Shelter young specimens from desiccating winds, maintain soil moisture, and mulch well.
Why is my blue giant sequoia siting errors (too small a space)?
Frequently planted in gardens without accounting for the eventual immense size. The root system and crown spread of mature trees can damage structures and outcompete neighbouring plants. Always site with full consideration of its ultimate dimensions.