Rusty Fuchsia tree

Theleman

Hi All

We have a tall Fuchsia tree in the corner of the garden. It is quite old now, got really tall and large.

I went close to it, and saw quite a lot of black stuff covered on many of its leaves.  Looks like rust.  During the summer, it used to have a lot of small insects on the leaves too.

What would be best way to deal with the situation? Thanks.

Lyn

Cut it right back in mid February to early March it should shoot out from the bottom, clean.   I cut mine down to about 6”,  they will make 6’ in the season.  In the meantime, remove all the infected leaves. Any insects will die over winter. 

Theleman

Yeah, it was never pruned before.  Will give a go in mid Feb coming

I was also thinking of spraying with soap water. But wasn't sure if it would be effective.

Lyn

I wouldn’t bother spraying it at all now,  just take off black leaves,  we’ve got some cold weather coming up, if it’s covered in snow or iced they’ll die.  If it’s very cold, like last year’s beast,  leave until 1st week in March. 

Theleman

yes, of course. Now it is bitterly cold, and garden is solidly frozen. Come spring March, will start gardening again. Now is time to ponder over yonder.