Why Are The Leaves On My Little John Bushes Drying Up And Dropping Off?

Question

We just planted these bushes this month. We live in Arizona where daytime temps now reach 90 degrees but usually in 80s. I have been watering 3 times a week.

Answer 1

Likely, it is a combination of high heat and overwatering. This combination is deadly for most new transplants. It will cause root suffocation, and stop new growth, while leading to infections in the soil.

From here, you will want to solarize your soil, and start over, planting in spring or autumn when the temperatures remain moderate.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/projects/how-to-solarize-garden-beds-to-eliminate-garden-pests-in-the-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/bottlebrush/growing-bottlebrush-plants.htm