How do I control insects eating my barberry shrubs?

Question

I have 3 shrubs, one facing south planted 2 years ago and 2 facing east planted 1 year ago. I had hoped the insect infecting the older shrub wouldn’t repeat again this season but it did and it also claimed the foliage on the 2 newer ones. My neighbor across the street has several beautiful thriving shrubs, mine look near death, what can I use to treat them with?

Answer 1

Are you certain it's a pest. Depending on the symptoms, it could be a fungus attacking the shrubs, which would also explain the spreading. Treat the plants with neem oil, which should take care of both pests and fungal issues. Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm