Pineapple Mango Leaf Browning & Winter Protection in NC

Two pineapple mango trees, 3 ft tall, planted in protected morning sun location (Durham, NC, zone 7b). Native sandy clay soil. New growth healthy, no yellowing/spots/insects. Didn't loosen root ball, amended soil 1 ft out. Suspected planted too deep—suggested lifting, teasing roots, replanting 2" higher.

Questions: 1) Mature leaves have dried tips/edges. 2) Overwintering plan: stakes taller than trees, wrap in clear plastic, pile straw like fig trees. Good?

Expert Advice

Wise to notice deep planting—they should be at nursery container level. Amending soil causes roots to circle at amendment boundary, creating weak root ball. Root ball should have been loosened.

I'm in SW Florida (zone 9a) and struggle with mango cold sensitivity. Your protection is well-thought but may not save them if temps hit low 20s. Better: plant in large containers, move to garage during cold snaps. Browning tips suggest low humidity or struggling roots.

Nick