Question
QUESTION: Dr. Van

We have 19 emeralds I am very concerned about.Much like Trish we have a golden/orange foliage turning on inside to outside and some of the foliage is dying. We are in N.E. Georgia and have had a lot of rain lately. Our plants are on a slight grade so we think we have good drainage.

I am at a loss on this since until like Trish about a month ago they were quite green with none of this stuff. BTW the trees are about 5 or six years old. Largest ones about 7 feet in height.

Thank you for reviewing our question and we eagerly await your suggestion.

Jim in Ga

ANSWER: Jim:
I suspect that the change in color, especially if it is occuring on many of these plants is related to a change in the environment rather than an infectious/contagious disease.  Temperature and moisture fluctuations can account for this. I have had several questions in reference to this and am not aware of anything like a disease going on. We have been getting lots of rain as well (22" above normal so far this year)and these wet soil conditions can do some strange things.  Good to know your plants are in a well drained area- something many people fail to take into consideration.

Regards

Steve

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you Dr. Van. What I believe you are suggesting based on the information we provided -- is the plants are not in dire straits at this time but suffering from environmental changes.

I had been thinking of spraying some horticultural oil on them or some additional miracle grow and malathion for insects. However based on your input it would appear we should take a watch and see attitude for the near term?

Answer
Jim:
Just keep an eye on them. Browning/bronzing foliage on the inside is a normal event this time of year. For well established plants, supplemental watering isn't often necessary.  Watch for the bagworms. Check the inside also of the shrub for these insects that love these plants.  Easy to spot. Hand pull them and finish them off on the sidewalk or driveway with a shoe.

Let me know how they are looking during April or May.
Regards.
Steve