Question
Hello,
I have a row of 10 Syzygium paniculatum (Eugenia) hedges that I planted about 6 months ago. They have grown quite nicely for the most part( I did have to control a psylid infestation using Malathion several months ago). Lately, about 1 month ago, I've noticed that some of the leaves are turning brown. It starts as a small area in the middle part of the leaf and appears to progress outward. The bushes are still turning out new foliage at the terminal ends as well as immediately adjacent to where the dying leaves are (in some areas).

My question: Am I dealing with a disease or is this a environmental/cultural issue, i.e. too much/too little water, nutrients, light etc? And secondly, what do I need to do to fix what's wrong. Thank you in advance for whatever guidance you can offer.

Answer
Mark;
Based on your description, I'd probably be leaning toward an environmental issue.  There may have been a period of drought or other weather extreme.  Examine the affected bushes closely for any apparent injury to the stems or roots, then prune out the brown sections and watch for signs of new brown materials. This doesn't sound like an infectious type of disease.

Steve