Expert: Edward Gulliksen - 8/2/2007

Question
THESE BUSHES ARE PLANTED CLOSE TO A BLOCK BUILDING (2FT)AND THEY LOSE THEIR LEAVES EVERY YEAR ABOUT JULY. WE HAVE WATERED THEM AND PUT MIRACLE GROW (ACID) THIS YEAR AND THEY  FELL OFF THE SAME. THE SOIL IS YELLOW CLAY, BUT HAS BEEN AMENDED. WE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW THE PROPER FERTILIZER AND HOW TO PREVENT THE LEAVES FROM FALLING OFF.

Answer
John,

I think that the problem may be the heat from the building that is causing the euoymus to drop it's leaves early. Reflected heat from a brick or stone building can send plants into stress and lead to early leaf drop and insect problems.

I would recommend painting the building a non reflective color to cut down on the reflected heat. The fertilizer that you are using will continue to help, so there is no need to change. Maintain good watering practices.

Good luck,
Ed Gulliksen