Question
I have a Vibernum shrub with some sort of disease. I believe it is Vibernum
Carlesii. Many of the leaves come out curled up and shriveled, even from new
growth. I can't see signs of beetle infestation, and the leaves are not
defoliated. They are green but just shriveled up and basically live all summer
like this. Some turn black eventually and die. It has been going on for about
three years, and has spread to more areas of the plant. Some of the curly
leaves have brown spots on the underside but not all. Some have a sticky
white cobwebby growth. I am not sure if this is fungal, bacterial, or Vibernum
beetle related. None of the sites I have read have discussed this particular
problem with the leaves. What is it and what should I do?

Answer
The sticky white cobwebby growth indicates an insect problem.  Either spider mites, scale or mealy bugs can produce these type of symptoms on the plants.  The leaves will then curl up as a repsonse to the feeding.  I would treat the plant with Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insecticide.  This product is mixed with water and poured around the base of the plant.  It is taken up systemically and will kill the bugs within a week or two.  It also provides protection from reinfestation for up to a year.  Good Luck.