Newly Planted Leyland Cypress Browning: Spider Mite Infestation

30 Leyland Cypress Showing Interior Browning and Webbing

Planted 2 months ago, 5 ft tall, on NC Outer Banks. 5 trees dead; others browning from inside out, bottom up. Webbing and spiders seen. Watered 3 gal/day (3× daily). Full sun, hot/humid.

Diagnosis: Spider Mites

Mites suck needle juices, cause bronzing/browning, produce fine silk webbing. Hot, dry conditions favor them.

Treatment

• Spray miticide (not general insecticide) per label.
• Reference: https://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2012.html
• Reduce watering frequency—daily watering promotes shallow roots and fungal issues. Water deeply 1–2× per week instead.

Key Point

Overwatering exacerbates mite problems. Correct irrigation + miticide = best recovery chance.