Azalea Spotted Leaves and Growth

Question

Reworking old and large azaleas. Drought and neglect killed off upper leaves and branches. Have cut back to within a foot of soil where new leaves are growing. Think variety is Formosa. Well drained soil. Will plants continue to grow again? Some plants have brown spots on leaves. No evidence of insects on underside. Growth and leaf disease?

Answer 1

Yes, they should regrow just fine. If no eveidence of pests can be seen, it could be suffering from a fungus of some sort. You can treat the shrubs with neem oil, which will take care of both pest and fungal issues.