Pieris japonica brown spots

Jane Reid · May 2020

After my pieris recovered well from an attack of lace bug, small brown spots have started to appear on new leaves. Any idea what has caused this & if there is anything I can do to remedy it & stop it spreading? See photo.

Fairygirl · May 2020

I wouldn't be too bothered by that, but where is it planted, and what conditions do you have?
If it's had an infestation, and it's not generally doing well, it could be down to your conditions, and it's location etc

Jane Reid · May 2020

Thanks Fairygirl. It's doing really well. It's in a sunny border, although shaded from the sun in mid afternoon & I've been giving it a weekly ericaceous feed. If it's not going to halt it's recovery then I'll fret no more 😊.

Fairygirl · May 2020

I wouldn't keep feeding it - they really don't need much food, and it's counter productive when they've been struggling.
It might be bit too sunny for it, but as long as they have adequate moist soil which isn't alkaline, they can manage it.
They're really better with more shade - an east or north site is best for them

Jane Reid · May 2020

Thanks Fairygirl, I'll stop feeding it. The soil is neutral which is why I thought it would appreciate the feed. It's on the large side (which I guess means it must be fairly happy) so I don't want to move it but if I should get another pieris I'll make sure it is planted somewhere more shaded.

Fairygirl · May 2020

They're perfectly happy in neutral soil

You could mulch with ericaceous compost, which would be better. It's fine to feed, but not every week. A mature shrub really only needs a general feed in spring. We have loads of huge ones round here - they like our climate:)

Jane Reid · May 2020

Wonderful, thanks for the great advice Fairygirl!

Pieris japonica brown spots

Posts