Anything I can do to save my red tips?
I just noticed these spots today. I researched a little and feel sorta hopeless in saving these bushes.
I live in San Antonio, TX. And the off and on rain and humidity makes this tough.
Any advice would be so appreciated.
You can always treat them with one of the many fungicides available. I personally recommend Daconil but there are others for your choice. I recommend removing as many of the affected leaves as possible before spraying to slow the spread of the spores. Bag then in plastic and dispose of them away from the area.
I agree with both the above replies, depending on what way you want to go.
My own way would be to PRUNE OFF the growing tip of ALL infected stems, cut about an inch below the affected foliage, remember the stems hold the disease also.
Make sure you (wash /sterilize) ALL tools after you work with them, IF you use gloves for the job, use disposable ones to throw in bin, also as you work with the infected foliage, you have to make sure you place it into a container. Large metal bin would be best as you can then set fire to and burn the stuff you removed, this helps prevent any spread of the disease as it can be carried by wind.
Make sure you gather ALL the fallen leaves and twig ends from the ground under and behind the shrubs as the fungus can over winter and re-infect the following spring.
Always choose a calm breeze free day to do any spraying, it contains the spray where you want it to work. I always begin to spray from under the leaves, continue to mist / spray from bottom upwards then continue top downwards, that way you dont miss the parts you need to cover.
Good luck and remember, next year you may have to respray but by that time you can catch it as soon as you see first signs of this pest /Disease.
Kindest regards.
WeeNel.
