Q.Red Tip Photinia
I have four photinias planted fairly close. The middle two began losing the leaves (which were mottled with dark circles) and it has spread to the other two. I got advice to cut the trees down almost to the ground and then get rid of all the leaves, but did not get advice on what to treat the disease with. Could you help me?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Photinia is very susceptible to the fungus leaf spot, called Entomosporium, that can defoliate photinia plants. Remove and destroy fallen leaves, prune off diseased twigs. Avoid overhead irrigation. Fungicide sprays (copper-based products) are also generally necessary for this disease, beginning from bud break and applied every ten to fourteen days until all foliage has matured. Mature foliage is no longer susceptible to infection. Neem oil can be used as well.
