Question
QUESTION: Hi.I have a young privet hedge that is starting to get sickly narrow curly yellow leaves.I have been giving this hedge many cans of water each day to help it grow.Do you think this has been caused by over watering or do you think it has got a disease like Wilt?.I have just ordered a low nitrogen feed which is high in potassium.I have read this is a treatment for Wilt.

ANSWER: Gary:
Can you send me a closeup photo of some of these leaves on the shrub? Be sure your image is in focus before you send. A physical sample would need to be examined to confirm a bona fide infectious disease such as wilt.  Many organisms can cause wilt.  Best to find out which one if any first thing before doing anything else.

A few questions also.  When was the hedge planted?  Are all of the plants affected in the same way? When did you notice the narrow/curly leaves.  Anything chemicals been sprayed or appled to or near the plants?

Regards
Steve

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

QUESTION: I'm sorry I can't really send you a photo. It is showing mostly on one plant, but is beginning to appear slightly on the ones next to it. I started the plants off in pots at the start of last year and then about nine months ago I planted them in the garden. The leaves at the base of the plant appear to be the most affected but the plants have got worse the last week or so. There hasn't been any chemicals sprayed,but we do have quite a few cats that come into the garden.

Answer
Gary:

There may be a root related issue here.  If your soil contains quite a bit of clay, it could be holding too much water which in turn can lead to root rot.  You may try cutting back on the water to see if you get a response.  In the meantime, look the plant over good, especially near the base.  Look for any damage to the bark, like an injury or area where the bark has been injured.  It would be best if someone could examine the plants in person.  If you have a local garden center/nursery or even an agriculture office that you could contact and request a visit.  There may be something that has been previously overlooked.  Replacement may be an option if this plant continues to go downhill.

Regards
Steve