Why Are the Leaves on My Virburnums Turning Red?

Question

My viburnum bushes appear to be dying or are infected. The leaves are turning red/brown, falling off and dying, and branches are weak at base of plant, falling off as well. I was told it might be infected with a borer. What is a viburnum borer? Could this be responsible? How can I get rid of it? Will cutting off the infected branches help? I have sprayed with an insecticide containing permethrin. Will that help?

Answer 1

The leaves are turning red due to something killing it and it could well be a borer issue. Here are more information about them and their control:
http://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-and-plant-advice/help-pests/viburnum-crown-borers

It may also be a fungus, which can be treated with a fungicide.