Italian Cypress Needle Blight in Florida: Water, Mulch, Fertilizer, and Mite Check

Browning and needle drop from bottom up on Italian cypress in central Florida is needle blight—caused by poor growing conditions or pathogens.

Cultural Fixes

• Water 1 inch per week (measure with pan under sprinkler).
• Mulch 2–3 inches (pine straw), not against trunk.
• Fertilize spring with 10-10-10 at 1 lb per inch trunk diameter.
• Avoid overwatering—promotes root rot fungi.

Spider Mites

Mites attack water-stressed cypress in hot, dry weather. They’re not insects—use miticide, not insecticide. Or hose foliage weekly with strong spray. High humidity at night (wet foliage nightly for 7–10 days) can eliminate mites.