We have a hedge of 3 photinias and this year lots of leaves have dropped off and the plants are looking very bare in places. Is there anything I can do to save the plants or would it be best to pull them up?
Are you seeing any other symptoms, like spotting on the leaves? It could have a fungus. It may also need pruning. Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/photinia/pruning-photinia-shrubs.htm, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/photinia/photinia-leaf-spot.htm
It is a photinia. I have checked all the normal reasons (i.e. wet/dry soil, sunlight, seasonal temperature, drainage, clay soil, etc.) but all are ok.
If you're satisfied that the culture is on point, then the problem must be pest or pathogens. Here's an article about a very common photinia disease: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/photinia/photinia-leaf-spot.htm
To find out what kind of a problem you have, take some leaf, branch, and soil samples to the nearest Extension Servcie for analysis and recommendation of treatment. This link will help you locate one: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search/
Planted two photinias a week ago and they both are producing yellow leaves around lower portion. Cause? They were professionally planted here in Green Valley, AZ. Thank you very much.
It sounds like they are in transplant shock. This article will help you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/learn-how-to-avoid-and-repair-transplant-shock-in-plants.htm
What could be causing my photinia leaves to partially die? They're discolored, dry and crack but green inside, so they're are still alive.
I believe this to be a fungus that is common to the Photinia.
Here is a link that will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/photinia/growing-red-tip-photinia.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/photinia/photinia-leaf-spot.htm
Certified GKH Gardening Expert: I believe this to be a fungus that is common to the Photinia. Here is a link that will help you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/photinia/growing-red-tip-photinia.htm https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/photinia/photinia-leaf-spot.htm. I would agree with that but if you notice it isn't leaf spots, this is what makes me leary about it being a fungus. Any other ideas?
I'm still fairly certain your dealing with a fungus.
Here are a few more links.
http://www.collierarbor.com/probPhotiniaLeafSpot.php
Do Photinia require ericacious soil or compost?
Since these shrubs grow in acidic to slightly acidic soil, it is fine to plant them using ericacious compost or you can simply feed the plant with an acid-loving fertilizer suitable for azaleas. Mixing used coffee grounds in the soil can help too.
My plant looks like it has the fungus but it didn't have it when I bought it and there are no others around. That's why I bought it. It was very unique. How do I get rid of it and can I just cut off the infected leaves? If it is a death sentence, I will return it and get my money back.
Photinia is susceptible to fungus.
Keep the leaves dry when watering is important. Planting in an area with good air circulation also helps.
Clean up any dead leaves and destroy.
Neem Oil can be used on the plant.
If you feel the plant had issues prior to the purchase, I would return.
Most garden centers will replace a plant within the first year.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/photinia/growing-red-tip-photinia.htm