Troubleshooting
Sweetbells Leucothoe problems — and how to fix them
Sweetbells Leucothoe (Leucothoe racemosa) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Root rot and leaf spot
Susceptible to fungal root rot in waterlogged (as opposed to moist) conditions, and to Cercospora or Septoria leaf spot in humid, poorly ventilated sites. Ensure drainage is adequate and thin congested stems annually.
Lace bugs
Stephanitis species cause pale stippling on leaf surfaces. Inspect undersides of leaves in spring and summer; treat with insecticidal soap, targeting the undersides thoroughly.
Prevent sweetbells leucothoe problems before they start
Most sweetbells leucothoe issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Sweetbells Leucothoe problems — FAQ
Why is my sweetbells leucothoe root rot and leaf spot?
Susceptible to fungal root rot in waterlogged (as opposed to moist) conditions, and to Cercospora or Septoria leaf spot in humid, poorly ventilated sites. Ensure drainage is adequate and thin congested stems annually.
Why is my sweetbells leucothoe lace bugs?
Stephanitis species cause pale stippling on leaf surfaces. Inspect undersides of leaves in spring and summer; treat with insecticidal soap, targeting the undersides thoroughly.