Can I use neem oil for the mites?

Yes, neem oil is effective, but apply it in the early morning or evening to avoid burning the needles in the sun.

Is yellowing normal in the fall?

Yes, Arizona cypress naturally sheds some older interior needles in the autumn, which may turn yellow before dropping.

Arizona cypress: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Hold a white piece of paper under a branch and shake it to see if tiny mites fall off.
Check the soil moisture to ensure it is not waterlogged.
Look for fine webbing on the inner branches.

Likely causes

Spider mites
Most likely
How to tell: You will see fine, dusty webbing between the needles. The foliage looks stippled or yellowed as the mites suck out the sap.
What to do: Blast the foliage with a strong stream of water from a garden hose to knock the mites off. Repeat this every 3 days for 2 weeks to break their life cycle.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: The yellowing starts from the inside of the tree and moves outward. The soil feels soggy or muddy even weeks after watering.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and allow the soil to dry out completely. If the area stays wet, consider installing a drainage pipe or mounding the soil to elevate the root zone.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your arizona cypress

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Yellowing that covers the entire tree suggests a root issue that may be fatal. If it is just a few inner needles, it is likely natural shedding.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the tree healthy with proper spacing to ensure good airflow. Avoid overwatering, which weakens the tree and invites pests.

Arizona cypress: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your arizona cypress and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I use neem oil for the mites?: Yes, neem oil is effective, but apply it in the early morning or evening to avoid burning the needles in the sun.
Is yellowing normal in the fall?: Yes, Arizona cypress naturally sheds some older interior needles in the autumn, which may turn yellow before dropping.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why are my Arizona cypress needles turning yellow?