Troubleshooting
Blue Atlas Cedar problems — and how to fix them
Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca') 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.
Root rot in wet soils
The most common cause of decline in cultivation. Phytophthora and Armillaria root rots occur in poorly drained or persistently wet sites. Plant only in well-drained positions; do not mulch up to the trunk. There is no curative treatment — site selection is critical.
Cedar aphids (Cinara cedri)
Large, grey-brown aphids cluster on stems and cause sooty mould and twig dieback. Monitor in spring and early summer. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil on small trees; large established trees rarely suffer lasting damage.
Wind scorch and snow damage
Young trees with their wide horizontal branches are vulnerable to snow loading and strong winds, which can split or break branches. Stake firmly for the first 3 years; shake off heavy snow accumulation. Siting out of prevailing cold winds reduces scorch risk.
Prevent blue atlas cedar problems before they start
Most blue atlas cedar issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Blue Atlas Cedar problems — FAQ
Why is my blue atlas cedar root rot in wet soils?
The most common cause of decline in cultivation. Phytophthora and Armillaria root rots occur in poorly drained or persistently wet sites. Plant only in well-drained positions; do not mulch up to the trunk. There is no curative treatment — site selection is critical.
Why is my blue atlas cedar cedar aphids (cinara cedri)?
Large, grey-brown aphids cluster on stems and cause sooty mould and twig dieback. Monitor in spring and early summer. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil on small trees; large established trees rarely suffer lasting damage.
Why is my blue atlas cedar wind scorch and snow damage?
Young trees with their wide horizontal branches are vulnerable to snow loading and strong winds, which can split or break branches. Stake firmly for the first 3 years; shake off heavy snow accumulation. Siting out of prevailing cold winds reduces scorch risk.