I would much appreciate information about causes and possible treatment for frequent die-back at the ends of branches of the camphor that looks almost like fireblight.

Reply to post by john bennear, on May 08, 2000 at 00:41:47:

I have done some web searching to find info in regard to your post. One tantilizing lead was unavailable. It suggested an investigation into new diseases found in camphor. The following site discusses mites and manganese deficiencies in camphor, but it sounds different to me than what you described.
http://www.tcpalm.com/fiftyplus/04t140.shtml
It is usually helpful to have more information, such as region/climate, soil, water quality and application rate, etc.
If it were my tree, I would begin by looking at things which have changed in the local environment. If the tree had been healthy up until now, what has been different? (Excavation,frosty weather,local use of herbicides or toxic fumes?) These trees do lose alot of leaves just before the new ones begin to grow in Spring. They are also prone to sunburn when pruning is severe. They are considered somewhat tolerant of drought, but everything has its limit. Besides a nutrient deficiency it is possible to have a toxic level of certain elements or salts. You could get a soil and water analysis if you suspect that possibility likely.