Question
QUESTION: I am from west central Indiana and have burning bushes located next to our house in clay type soil and they are 9 years old.  We use stone for landscaping. The bushes are set out 3 ft. from the house and about 2 ft from the walk.  Last summer the leaves turned prematurely, dropped and then some branches died.  This summer they look like they may be doing the same thing.  I have regularly sprayed with Ortho Disease and Insect Control, have used ammonium sulfate and 6-10-10 fertilizer.  I just pruned them to somewhat shape the bushes.  The branches do look like there might be a scale on them but I'm not sure.

ANSWER: Shirley,

The problem is almost definately Two Spotted Spider Mites. The desription of the environment is perfect for their development. The stones that are used in the beds reflect heat onto the under sides of the leaves and encourage the mites to breed.

Mites do their damage in the late spring, early summer. I would recommend spraying with a registered miticide now to minimize the population. Spray miticide next year in the mid spring to prevent this damage from occurring. Fertilize them this fall to help strengthen.

Good luck,
Ed Gulliksen

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

QUESTION: Where do I purchase a registered miticide and is there a certain company that makes it?
Thanks!!

Answer
Shirley,

Your local garden center should carry Miticides, the company or brand is not important. If there is no garden center or nursery near you, you can order them over the internet from North Country Organics or other gardening suppyers.

Good luck,
Ed Gulliksen