Forsythia Browning Leaves - Ask Extension
We have two forsythia plants, both planted in different areas of our yard. One appears to be healthy & the second has developed browning leaves. I...
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Forsythia Browning Leaves #809771
Asked September 06, 2022, 10:05 PM EDT
We have two forsythia plants, both planted in different areas of our yard. One appears to be healthy & the second has developed browning leaves. I am submitting two photos of the plant with leaf issues and one photo of the plant that seems healthier. Could you please suggest a reason why the one plant is not doing as well? Thank you very much.
Kent County Michigan
Expert Response
Yellow or brown leaves on forsythia can occur for several different reasons...the main ones being overcrowding, dry conditions, topical injury, or pests. Other than a couple of yellowing limbs, you bush looks healthy. If those limbs aren't already broken or show signs of disease or insects, prune them back to ground level and water the plant well. Especially be sure it is well watered going into dormancy and winter weather.
The links below will give you some basic tips for the care of forsythia.
https://gardenerspath.com/plants/ornamentals/causes-forsythia-leaf-yellowing/
https://www.gardendesign.com/shrubs/forsythia.html
If you can rule out the issue listed above, check your forsythia for
swellings on the branches. If find some, your bush may have phomopsis gall. Here is information:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/forsythia/forsythia-gall-treatment.htm
The links below will give you some basic tips for the care of forsythia.
https://gardenerspath.com/plants/ornamentals/causes-forsythia-leaf-yellowing/
https://www.gardendesign.com/shrubs/forsythia.html
If you can rule out the issue listed above, check your forsythia for
swellings on the branches. If find some, your bush may have phomopsis gall. Here is information:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/forsythia/forsythia-gall-treatment.htm
