Frequently asked Tree and Shrub questions...
and their Answers

(to see the answer, click on the question):

• My neighbor thinks I am over watering my Boxwood shrubs because the leaf tips are wilting and turning brown. Is he right?
  
  
• How would I know if I have aphids on my Cleyera, or any other plant for that matter?
  
  
• I have a white powdery film on my Crape Myrtle. What is it, and can you do anything about it?
  
  
• I have some Euonymus plants, and seem to always be having problems keeping them healthy. What am I doing wrong?
  
  
• I'm going to be putting in some shrubs and ornamentals at my new home. What are some good plants that require no maintenance?
  
  
• I have little webs scattered throughout my shrubs. Do I need them to be treated?
  
  
• How do I know if I have borers in my tree?
  
  
• I have Photinias along the side of my house and they always have powdery mildew and black spots on the leaves. Can you help me?

Q. My neighbor thinks I am over watering my Boxwood shrubs because the leaf tips are wilting and turning brown. Is he right?

A. There are a number of problems that Boxwood shrubs have, including nematodes, leaf miners, scale, soil fungus, and freeze damage. However the symptom that you are describing indicates that your plant is getting too much water. (In fact, that is how many trees and shrubs will react to excess water. Many a tree and shrub has died from too much water. Do not over water your landscape!) The Boxwood needs only moderate water in well drained soil.

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Q. How would I know if I have aphids on my Cleyera, or any other plant for that matter?

A. Cleyera normally grows well with good drainage; however it sometimes has problems with aphids. Aphids leave a clear secretion upon which a black fungus or sooty mold will grow. Because they are so reproductive (can have up to 50 generations per year and a female can produce 50 to 100 young) they can become a problem real fast. They can curl and distort the leaves on your plant and they carry virus diseases that may cause even more harm, including killing your plant. Aphids need to be controlled with the proper insecticide as soon as possible.

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