A Gardeners Forum
Posted By: Karrie Endless Summer Hydragenda with black spots on leaves - June 20th, 2006 at 02:37 PM
I noticed my endless summer is getting alot of black spots on the leaves, and alot of the leaves are just black around the edges. We have had a ton of rain this week, could that be the issue? I don't know what to do with it. I removed the blackened and spotted leaves, shall I just leave it at that? I am not sure if its a problem or me just being paranoid.
Posted By: luis_pr Re: Endless Summer Hydragenda with black spots on leaves - June 20th, 2006 at 10:12 PM
It could be anthracnose but it is difficult to diagnose when you are not there to see it. Be aware that fungus in hydrangeas is a very common thing. But, only in the fall season.

This being so early, I would address other cultural aspects that could be causing the problem. For example, make sure that there is good air circulation around the plant; do not water or mist the leaves; instead, water the soil under the plant with a water wand and do this only in the mornings; discard plant debris or leaves that may accumulate under the plant in the Fall (do not put the any affected leaves in the compost pile but rather, throw it in the trash); keep the soil moisture level constant with the use of 2-3" of mulch; water when the soil feels dry; replace the mulch in order to remove any spores that may be found there.

For a list of possible diseases/fungicides, see this link:
http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-1212

Your local extension service or a good local plant nursery could help with the diagnosis. Take a sample in a sealed plastic bag for analysis to them.

Good luck,
Luis
Posted By: Karrie Re: Endless Summer Hydragenda with black spots on leaves - June 21st, 2006 at 09:52 AM
THanks Luis, I plucked the nasty leaves and think it may be from all the darn rain we have had. Its in a place where I have discovered the drainage is terrible. Hubby and I are working on a Dam of sorts to rout the water a different direction, wish us luck, we are gonna need it. I am gonna monitor it and if it comes back again I plan on takeing futher action.
© A Gardeners Forum [Archive]