More Problems Growing Japanese Blueberry in the Desert

Q. We planted two Japanese blueberry trees in March of 2011 and have fertilized and watered them according to instructions. This summer they both are losing leaves and have white tips on the edge of the leaves. Another name beside Japanese Blueberry is Elaeocarpus Decipiens. Do you have any information or advise on these trees?

A. Questions about Japanese blueberry have been popular because people have not had much luck with them in desert landscapes. They are not really intended for desert landscapes even though they will grow in the desert if planted and managed with care. So I have linked you with a few of my responses regarding this tree from my blog.

http://xtremehorticulture.blogspot.com/2014/05/japanese-blueberry-tops-are-dying.html

http://xtremehorticulture.blogspot.com/2014/05/japanese-blueberry-top-dieback-followup.html

http://xtremehorticulture.blogspot.com/2014/04/japanese-blueberry-orange-leaves.html

http://xtremehorticulture.blogspot.com/2015/01/pruning-japanese-blueberry-to-encourage.html

http://xtremehorticulture.blogspot.com/2012/08/japanese-blueberry-leaves-falling-and.html

I hope this helps.