Japanese Honeysuckle Leaves Turn Brown From Outside In And Die And There Is Brown Powder On Affected Areas

Question From: Yorba Linda, California, United States
Q: I have a large hill full of Japanese Honeysuckle. It's been beautiful for over 15 years. Sections are turning dark brown and dying under the "mat" and leaves start browning from the outer edge inward. Then dies. There seems to be a brown powder on the affected areas.

A: Sounds like a fungal disease. Bag up some samples and take it to an independent garden center or nursery for a more accurate Id and recommendations for control. Lack of water may have stressed it, making it vulnerable to disease. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy