Nerium oleander, as the magnificent flowering shrub is technically called, is one of the most popular potted plants. However, the plant is not only beautiful to look at, but is also quite sensitive to many fungal and bacterial diseases. Dry shoots are often an indication of an infection with the Ascochyta fungus. This is also known as dry rot because of the typical signs.
What to do if the shoots on the oleander are dry?
Dry shoots on oleander can indicate a dry rot infection caused by the Ascochyta fungus. To save the oleander, you should generously cut off dried shoots and cut them back to he althy wood. Make sure your tools are clean and wear gloves as the plant is poisonous.
Dry rot on oleander – shoots dry up and die
Ascochyta infection often occurs after overwintering and is characterized by a slow drying of the entire oleander. Initially only individual leaves and shoots are affected, with the damaged areas spreading more and more as the disease progresses. Although drought or frost damage to oleanders after winter is quite common, it can be traced back to certain causes such as a lack of watering or frost. However, you should pay attention if the oleander develops dry shoots despite correct overwintering and sufficient watering - in such a case, dry rot is usually behind it.
Cut off dried shoots properly
In the event of dry rot, it is important to act quickly because as soon as the infection reaches the roots, the oleander can no longer be saved. Cut away the dry shoots generously, but under no circumstances throw the cuttings into the compost - since the fungi survive there without any problems, there is a risk of reinfection not only of the oleander, but also of other plants. Make sure to always cut back into he althy wood and not to leave any stubs behind. Instead, the shoots are removed either to the base or to the next branch. Use clean and sharp tools (€13.00 on Amazon) and be sure to wear gloves! Oleander is highly poisonous, so the milky sap released when cut can cause skin irritation and even symptoms of poisoning such as diarrhea and vomiting if it enters the bloodstream through open wounds.
Tip
Oleander shoots that have faded should not be cut off, but rather the faded petals should be carefully plucked off. The new flowers are already on these branches, which is why you would only deprive yourself of the blossoms if you cut them boldly. However, it makes sense to clean it out so that the plant does not form pods and puts unnecessary energy into seed formation.
