Q.Dwarf Abelia’s
I have planted 7 dwarf abelia’s in rich well drained soil and expected them to thrive. The soil level ph is 8 1/2 and although this is rich I have had success in the past with these plants but I also put on iron sulphate to reduce the alkalinity in the last year and thought this might have brought it down but it hasn’t. This is the second batch of abulia’s I have planted as the last batch also died. The plants are wilted an there are lots of dead stems but they do not look diseased. I am at a loss as to what to do and would love some input. Thank you. Melanie
Yes this pH is way too high for these to survive here. Try enriching the soil with organic compost, as well as adding more iron sulfate. This should correct your issue. This is a common problem with clay soil if this is the case here.
Here is a set of articles that will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/abelia/