Azalea Problem

Question

I have an azalea with numerous spots of a pale green growth on it. There are branches with defoliation and some have died. What is it and how do I treat the bush?

Answer 1

It sounds like it may be azalea lace bug. These articles will help: https://utextension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/SP290-E.pdf, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/azalea-lace-bug.htm If there are no signs of lace bug, then it could also be azalea gall. This disease commonly occurs in early spring on new leaf growth. The leaves become curled, fleshy, and pale green to white. Affected leaves eventually turn brown and should be removed and destroyed. However, it is most likely attributed to lace bugs, as they generally cause bleaching (pale green) of the leaves.