QUESTION
I’m wondering if this is tea mite damage? This bronzing is on most of my camellias. ‘Tinsie’ is the worst affected and has been declining every year. I thought it was lack of watering until I recently identified this possible problem in a book. Do you have a cure suggestion, please?
Sally, Garden Clinic Member via email.
ANSWER
Yes, it is tea mite, an increasing problem of some camellias. Most miticides are either very toxic or banned for home gardeners. See article on azaleas in this issue. I suggest spraying both sides of the leaves weekly from mid-spring with Yates Nature’s Way Vegie and Herb Spray – Natrasoap or econeem. Feed with Kahoona and mulch with a manure or compost. New growth will recover, no need to remove.
We hope you have enjoyed this article so far.
One of the many benefits of Garden Clinic membership is full access to our website. Members please log in to view the complete articles.
If you are not a Garden Clinic member and wish to access our website as well as enjoy the many benefits of membership, including access to our Helpline 7 days a week, please visit the link below to join us.