Forsythias wilted, red and dying

Question

Why are my Forsythias wilted, turning red and look like they are dying? I have 6 established new Forsythia plants from last year cuttings planted down my driveway. They get great sun and water. Four of them are doing great but two of them are wilted and the stem and leaves are turning red, then brown and dying. Anyone know why?

Answer 1

They do this when stressed, so it can be cause by several things.

If the whole plant is wilting at once, it could be a root rot. Some root rots are curable, others are not. Curable root rots can be addressed by treating the soil with a fungicide and making sure that the soil has good drainage. Incurable root rots, the best thing to do is pull the plants out ASAP before the rot spread to other plants.

If the plants seem to be wilting in sections, then it may be a fungus or a pest. Treat the plant with a fungicide and a pesticide to cover both possibilities. Neem oil is a good choice as it is both.