Cotoneaster Leaves And Berries Are Turning Brown

Question From: NEW YORK
Q: My cotoneaster's leaves are turning brown and dropping. The berries are turning yellow then brown.

A: My guess is your shrub has a bacterial disease called fire blight. Quick removal of infected stems is key to survival. Clean pruner blades with alcohol after every cut. Take photos and bagged stem cuttings to an independent garden center or nursery that sells these plants for an accurate ID and control. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy.