Privet Hedge Mystery Issue

Question

I have a row of Privet hedge that is nearly 40 years old. Two of the bushes are having some issue with the leaves. I have increased water and that has not helped. Any suggestions and help would be greatly appreciated as I don’t want to lose the two bushes

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Answer 1

It looks like something is feeding on the leaves, possibly black vine weevils. You can look for them feeding at night. The larvae feed on the plant roots, which could cause root disease. The white areas could be due to powdery mildew, common if the plant experiences moderate temperatures and shade.

Here is more on weevil damage, diseases, and powdery mildew:

https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/privet.html

https://ipm.ucanr.edu/home-and-landscape/powdery-mildew-on-ornamentals/pest-notes/#gsc.tab=0