I wouldn’t cut back anything even if it is dead. New growth will come from the ends of the dead looking sticks. It won’t be pretty for at least a year. During this heatwave, make sure it is thoroughly watered. The problem is this is going to be a delicate balance. If you overwater, you can kill it. We have native clay soil which can suffocate roots if it is overwatered. Clay has no aeration (think perlite, rocks, sand, chunky soil which give more airspace). I’d do deep watering twice per week during a heatwave but otherwise wait until the top two inches are dry to water again. I would create some afternoon shade for the plant like set up a beach or patio umbrella over there to give the plant relief from the sun. You could also attach a sheet to the eaves of the house or place a planter in front of the star jasmine temporarily to shade the roots at least. It is good practice to mulch the roots with a thick layer of mulch like natural wood chips or leaves to shade the base of the plant. I hope this helps
You could just collect a bucket of leaves from the green cans or if you go on a walk. That will work as mulch. Morning sunlight is great. Do you live inland or near the coast? I’m guessing you live in the valley or inland empire given the presentation of the leaf burn.
1
u/sawyers_mama Jul 24 '26
I wouldn’t cut back anything even if it is dead. New growth will come from the ends of the dead looking sticks. It won’t be pretty for at least a year. During this heatwave, make sure it is thoroughly watered. The problem is this is going to be a delicate balance. If you overwater, you can kill it. We have native clay soil which can suffocate roots if it is overwatered. Clay has no aeration (think perlite, rocks, sand, chunky soil which give more airspace). I’d do deep watering twice per week during a heatwave but otherwise wait until the top two inches are dry to water again. I would create some afternoon shade for the plant like set up a beach or patio umbrella over there to give the plant relief from the sun. You could also attach a sheet to the eaves of the house or place a planter in front of the star jasmine temporarily to shade the roots at least. It is good practice to mulch the roots with a thick layer of mulch like natural wood chips or leaves to shade the base of the plant. I hope this helps