Lynn M. from Pismo Beach, CA writes:
“I planted a row of red tip photinias along my property line, around 50 plants in all . Most of the plants are distressed and woody. Many plants have yellow or brownish red leaves. These plants are 7-8 years old and are 5-7 feet tall. More leaves fall off the plants then stay on. Can I save these plants? It is sad I allowed them to get like this. I am hoping by perhaps cutting them back or another treatment they can be saved. Your advise would be greatly appreciated. I live along the central coast of California, where we have mild climates and a long growing season. Thank You Lynn in Pismo Beach, CA. “
Honestly, the problems you describe could be the result of so many things it’s difficult to know where to start. I will admit that I have a bias against Photinia, which I call Satan’s Revenge. Not only is the plant lava-red, but I’m deathly allergic to its bloom. When I lived in California, where it is grown extensively, I suffered badly when the plants put on flowers. I learned to despise it through swollen weepy eyes: “I sneeze in your general direction you nasty shrub!” Because of my allergies, this is one plant I prefer to shear in time to remove all its blooms. (And for those of you who know me and/or read regularly, you know I don’t like shearing!)
Okay, my own bias stated and now shelved, let’s see if I can help you try to salvage your beloved plants despite my belief it was put on our planet by a fallen angel to torture humanity. Here are a few things to consider as you try to determine what might help you help them:
- How is the soil? Have you tested it? Does it meet the plant’s requirements?
- Is the soil too deep? If the woody part of the plant is sinking or buried under too much mulch, this could be a problem.
- Have you provided sufficient (or even too much) water?
- Have the plants been malpruned?
- Have the plants been over fertilized?
- Are the plants in the right location for their cultural needs?
- Has something happened near the plants that could be causing the problems? Construction? New plants nearby? Something else?
- Are the plants planted too close together?
- Is there a new pest or pathogen problem in your area?
This is a really good example of the kind of problem that needs looking at up close. Obviously, I try to help sight-unseen, but more often than not specific problems like this need an on-site evaluation. I suggest trying to find a gardening consultant in your area or contact your local Master Gardeners Extension to get some assistance closer to home.
Lynn, thanks for writing in. Good luck!
Tags: allergies, master gardeners, photinia, pismo beach
Ha – for a minute I thought your site had been hacked
Couple more questions to ponder: Are you near ocean spray? Are you near a dog walking path?
I’m for radical renovation. Get rid of the dead and diseased leaves, give them a major haircut and see what happens. (Again, advice given without seeing any of the specimens in question).