| I'm getting dark spots on my red tips. Any suggestions on what to use to treat them? |
| The spots you are seeing are most likely the fungus Entomosporium leaf spot. This disease can be quite devastating to Red Tip Photinias, causing repeated defoliation thereby weakening the plants. Raking fallen leaves can help reduce the amount of disease spores in and around the bushes, thus decreasing the problem somewhat. There are some fungicides that can help reduce the problem. Your County Extension Office (phone 713-855-5600) can assist you with choosing an effective product if you wish to try and manage the disease with chemical sprays. Fall and spring are the main times of leaf infection, and therefore the most important times to spray in order to prevent the problem. Once the spots appear, sprays will not make them go away. However, there is no quick fix or permanent cure. In recent years many Texas gardeners and landscapers have chosen to go with other species of shrubs because of this persistent problem. Thanks for visiting our site! |
