A Chicago landscape manager recently asked me, “Why is my Ixora plant dying?” He was concerned about disease issues and wanted to begin a spraying program.
His plant is off-color, has spots, and hasn’t bloomed well in a long time. These are some of the common diseases that Ixora plants are susceptible to.
Sometimes, though, the issue might just be mild and requires a simple fix.
Here are 3 common reasons why an Ixora plant is dying (with solutions):
Leaf Spot Disease
Your Ixora plant may be showing signs of a disease known as leaf spot disease. This fungal disease affects leaves and causes them to appear yellow and wilted.
In severe cases, the affected plant will have leaves that drop off. Although leaf spot disease is not always fatal, it should be identified quickly.
It is important to check the soil and its pH level to make sure it is properly moist. If the soil is too acidic, the plant will not grow properly.
The pH level must be between 5 and 6. If the pH level is too high or too low, the leaves will not grow properly.
You may also have an infestation of aphids on your plant. Aphids will cover the leaves with a sooty mold. You can use an insecticide like neem oil to control this problem.
Sooty mold
Sooty mold is not an actual infection but a fungal growth on the surface of the plant. It does not harm the plant directly, but it can inhibit photosynthesis by blocking sunlight from reaching the leaves.
This will stunt the growth of the plant, and if left untreated, will eventually kill it.
If your Ixora plant has been dying because of sooty mold, you can do a few things to help it get over the problem.
Sooty mold can appear as a thick, dry, black coating on leaves.
While this fungus affects many types of plants, it is most common in roses and gardenias. To treat the condition, you need to find the source of the problem and solve it.
Chlorosis
Chlorosis can be caused by a lack of several nutrients, including iron. It also can be caused by deficiencies in manganese and zinc.
Iron is needed for the formation of chlorophyll, the substance that gives plants its green color.
This mineral is also essential for plant growth and many enzyme functions.
Chlorosis is a common problem for Ixora plants. This fungus causes yellowing leaves that deteriorate the plant’s color.
There are a number of possible causes of chlorosis, but the most common is high soil alkalinity. To identify the exact cause, a soil test should be done.
If you suspect your plant has chlorosis, there are several treatments to try. One common treatment is to apply soapy water to the affected areas.
This works for both the underside of the leaves and the stem. Or, you can apply Orthene, which is a fungicide that can control the problem.
Are Ixora plants easy to grow?
Ixora plants are remarkably easy to care for and only need occasional pruning and fertilizing.
Annual spring pruning will encourage healthy growth and decrease the chances of disease.
The plant also requires annual spring fertilization. However, Ixorias can be susceptible to several pests, including aphids.
In addition, they should be mulched to retain moisture and add organic nutrients to the soil.
As a tropical plant, the Ixora does well with other tropical plants. It grows best when planted with impatiens, gingers, and bromeliads.
You may also want to prune it in winter to prevent fungal problems.
After that, you can enjoy the fragrant flowers in salads and dishes.
You can propagate the Ixora plant by using stem cuttings. Just make sure to sterilize the blade, and divide the stem at the center of the node.
Then, plant the new stem in well-drained, moist soil. Place it in a well-lit area, and it will develop a root system.
Ixora plant and diseases: Conclusion
Ixoras can be susceptible to insect pests. They can get attacked by aphids, mealybugs, and scale.
You can control these pests by treating the plant with insecticides or neem oil. Ixoras also need bright light and liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
If you prune an Ixora plant too early, it can kill it. The soil needs to be well-drained and free of rocks.
Also, be sure to trim off any old or diseased roots. Also, make sure that you plant the plant in moist soil, as this can help it grow.