Troubleshooting
Dwarf Chinese Juniper problems — and how to fix them
Dwarf Chinese Juniper (Juniperus chinensis 'Compressa') is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Phomopsis tip blight
Fungal infection causing brown, dying shoot tips in spring and early summer, most prevalent after wet weather. Prune out affected growth with sterilised tools and apply a preventive copper fungicide in early spring.
Spider mites
Dense foliage provides ideal conditions for spider mites in hot, dry weather; look for stippled, bronze foliage and fine webbing in the plant interior. Treat with horticultural soap or neem oil, ensuring thorough coverage inside the plant.
Prevent dwarf chinese juniper problems before they start
Most dwarf chinese juniper issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Dwarf Chinese Juniper problems — FAQ
Why is my dwarf chinese juniper phomopsis tip blight?
Fungal infection causing brown, dying shoot tips in spring and early summer, most prevalent after wet weather. Prune out affected growth with sterilised tools and apply a preventive copper fungicide in early spring.
Why is my dwarf chinese juniper spider mites?
Dense foliage provides ideal conditions for spider mites in hot, dry weather; look for stippled, bronze foliage and fine webbing in the plant interior. Treat with horticultural soap or neem oil, ensuring thorough coverage inside the plant.