Can spider mites kill my tree?

Yes, if left untreated for a long time, they can weaken the tree significantly. Catching them early makes them easy to manage.

Is yellowing always a sign of a problem?

Not always. Older needles deep inside the canopy often turn yellow and drop as the tree matures, which is a natural process.

Blue cypress: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the foliage for fine webbing.
Check the moisture level of the top inch of soil.
Look for sunken lesions on the branches.

Likely causes

Spider Mites
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny webs between the needles and a dusty, yellowed appearance on the foliage. These pests thrive in hot and dry conditions.
What to do: Spray the entire plant with a strong stream of water to knock the mites off. Follow up with insecticidal soap or neem oil applied every 5 to 7 days until the infestation clears.
Improper Watering
Possible
How to tell: The foliage turns yellow or pale when the plant is either too dry or sitting in soggy soil. Check if the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.
What to do: Adjust your schedule to water every 5 to 10 days. Ensure the pot has drainage holes so water never pools around the roots.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your blue 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

If the yellowing spreads rapidly across the whole tree, it is a sign of severe stress. Minor yellowing on older, inner needles is normal as the tree grows.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the foliage clean by misting it occasionally and ensure the plant gets consistent water during hot spells.

Blue cypress: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your blue 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 spider mites kill my tree?: Yes, if left untreated for a long time, they can weaken the tree significantly. Catching them early makes them easy to manage.
Is yellowing always a sign of a problem?: Not always. Older needles deep inside the canopy often turn yellow and drop as the tree matures, which is a natural process.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why are my Monterey cypress leaves turning yellow?