Chindo Viburnam Bushes Have Black Spots On Leaves That Turn Yellow Red Or Brown

Question From: P. Ferry - NORTH CAROLINA
Q: I have 25 chindo viburnam bushes that I planted 1 1/2 years ago in the Charlotte, NC, area. They seem to have contracted some kind of fungal? disease with black spots on the leaves that eventually turn yellow, red or brown. I've sprayed with a systemic fungicide once and 7 days later more yellow leaves appeared. I've removed all of the yellow leaves from the bushes and around the plants and disposed of them. There's also cypress mulch around the plants. Is there something else I should do? I've invested about $1k and don't want to lose them. Trying to screen the sides of my yard for some privacy.

A:

I suggest you enlist the services of a certified arborist to do an onsite inspection and treat the shrubs. There are different kinds of fungal diseases and these professionals are able to use products not available to the general public. An arborist will also be able to tell if there are other problems. An onsite inspections runs about $75 in my area - well worth the expense to save your investment. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy.