Troubleshooting
Mountain Rimu problems — and how to fix them
Mountain Rimu (Dacrydium bidwillii) 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.
Foliage browning
Caused by dry soil or desiccating winds. Keep soil moist and provide wind shelter.
Poor growth in alkaline soil
Chlorosis and slow growth indicate high pH. Amend soil with sulphur or use ericaceous compost.
Root rot in heavy clay
Improve drainage by incorporating grit into planting hole and mound planting if needed.
Scale insects
Occasionally infest foliage. Treat with horticultural oil applied when crawlers are visible in spring.
Prevent mountain rimu problems before they start
Most mountain rimu issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Mountain Rimu problems — FAQ
Why is my mountain rimu foliage browning?
Caused by dry soil or desiccating winds. Keep soil moist and provide wind shelter.
Why is my mountain rimu poor growth in alkaline soil?
Chlorosis and slow growth indicate high pH. Amend soil with sulphur or use ericaceous compost.
Why is my mountain rimu root rot in heavy clay?
Improve drainage by incorporating grit into planting hole and mound planting if needed.
Why is my mountain rimu scale insects?
Occasionally infest foliage. Treat with horticultural oil applied when crawlers are visible in spring.