The New Zealand Plant Conservation Network

My Pururi tree (Wellington) is noticeable thinning its leaves. A few thoughts. I removed a large tulip tree next to it two years ago. I thought it would grow out on that side but it hasnt. I have been using some extra strength weed killer on weeds around it. This winter I thinned it slightly took some boughs out. Possums. Any advice would be welcome

Hi Peter, Puriri are notably fickle about root disturbance and are root translocation of herbicides is also possible. Possums will cause crown damage, but usually there are jagged eaten leaves left behind on the twigs and scattered on the ground. Keep it sheltered from wind and don't let it get too dry or wet and it may recover. They can grow fast in the right conditions.

PS photos of the tree might help with a diagnosis too

Hi Mike, thank you for your very welcome advice. I inspected the tree over the weekend but no signs of possums. I did spray with extra strength weed killer around the tree but it was on ivy near by and no where near the tree itself. I removed a tulip to the south west of the tree so it is now more exposed to Southerlies but same exposure to the North West which is far and away the predominate wind. I have attached some photos - it has noticeably thinned but I would add that it has had a huge fruiting recently so maybe it has been putting energy into that. Some pictures now attached.

Photo2

photo 3

Thanks Peter, it looks like it is suffering increased wind or dryness from the removal of the tulip tree. Most of the tree looks good. Sometimes freshly exposed branches on trees will die but all you can do is keep your fingers crossed.