Growli

Troubleshooting

Dawn Redwood 'Gold Rush' problems — and how to fix them

Dawn Redwood 'Gold Rush' (Metasequoia glyptostroboides 'Gold Rush') 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 reversion to green

In too much shade the golden needles fade to ordinary green and growth becomes lax. Site in full sun to keep the colour.

Leaf scorch in hot sun

In hot, dry climates the bright young foliage can scorch at the tips. Provide steady soil moisture and some afternoon shelter where summers are fierce.

Chlorosis on alkaline soil

Thin chalky or very alkaline soils cause yellowing between veins. Improve with organic matter or choose a more neutral-to-acid site.

Drought stress

As a moisture-loving species it suffers premature needle drop if allowed to dry out, especially when young; mulch and water through dry spells.

Prevent dawn redwood 'gold rush' problems before they start

Most dawn redwood 'gold rush' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:

Looking for dawn redwood 'gold rush' in general rather than its problems? Read the full dawn redwood 'gold rush' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.

Dawn Redwood 'Gold Rush' problems — FAQ

Why is my dawn redwood 'gold rush' foliage reversion to green?

In too much shade the golden needles fade to ordinary green and growth becomes lax. Site in full sun to keep the colour.

Why is my dawn redwood 'gold rush' leaf scorch in hot sun?

In hot, dry climates the bright young foliage can scorch at the tips. Provide steady soil moisture and some afternoon shelter where summers are fierce.

Why is my dawn redwood 'gold rush' chlorosis on alkaline soil?

Thin chalky or very alkaline soils cause yellowing between veins. Improve with organic matter or choose a more neutral-to-acid site.

Why is my dawn redwood 'gold rush' drought stress?

As a moisture-loving species it suffers premature needle drop if allowed to dry out, especially when young; mulch and water through dry spells.