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Is foliage dieback in Leyland cypress caused by an aphid Cinara cupressivora?

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Is foliage dieback in Leyland cypress caused by an aphid Cinara cupressivora?

Lead scientist
Dr Jean Fitzgerald, East Malling Research
Partners
Dr Tijana Blanusa, Rachael Tanner RHS
Start date
2006
End date
2008
Keywords

Leyland cypress, aphid, dieback, browning, hedge, trimming

Benefits to gardeners

The findings of this project will provide answers on how the maintenance of the Leyland hedges can be optimised to decrease the likelihood of cypress dieback appearing and spreading.

The problem

Leyland and Lawson cypress are extensively used to make quick growing hedges, but regular trimming of the hedges is needed to avoid excessive growth. Brown patches (dieback) are becoming more common on trimmed hedges. Feeding damage by conifer aphids can cause browning on conifers, but it is uncertain if aphids are responsible for most of the damage seen.

Approach


Further information


Advisory information

Read more on Conifers: brown patches

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