Cold Injury
Abiotic
3 host plants
Last updated
Data Coverage 3 of 6 dimensions
Cold injury causes branch and bud death when temperatures drop severely below the hardiness zone. You see blackened buds, twig dieback, and branch mortality. Protect tender plants from cold by proper siting and microclimate management. Remove deadwood after injury occurs.
Management depends on catching it early. Scout susceptible plants regularly and remove affected tissue before the pathogen can spread. Improve growing conditions by addressing drainage, spacing, and irrigation practices. For persistent or severe cases, contact your local Master Gardener program or Extension office for treatment options specific to your host plants.
Quick Reference
Causal Agent
Abiotic
Host Plants
3
Management
Cultural Controls
- In spring, prune away dead wood all the way back to healthy, green wood.
- Do not prune live wood.
- Use loose organic mulch to maintain soil moisture and protect from extreme cold.
- Transplant affected camellias to shady and calm areas, or provide further shading in present areas.
- Do not fertilize, prune, or water heavily late in the season.
- Water during fall and early winter dry spells; pay attention to plants under roof overhangs or other dry areas.