Astilbe Brown Leaves and Apple Tree Leaf Issues - Ask Extension
I recently planted this Astible. Are the leaves brown because of plant shock, its too dry or too wet? It is in a mostly shaded area in clay soil but I...
Knowledgebase
Astilbe Brown Leaves and Apple Tree Leaf Issues #667234
Asked July 22, 2020, 7:41 AM EDT
I recently planted this Astible. Are the leaves brown because of plant shock, its too dry or too wet? It is in a mostly shaded area in clay soil but I used top soil when I planted so it is not all clay.
The second issue is my apple tree - is this a disease or insect issue? I did not see any insects. What should I use to treat it? Thank you!! Tara
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Although astilbes are quite sensitive to drought, transplant shock could account for the leaf scorch. Too much water can have the same effect. If the soil is moist but not saturated, the plant will probably fare well. So far, the damage is relatively minor.
The apple leaves have probably been damaged by Japanese beetles. The beetles may have moved on. If not, look for them on warm sunny days when they are most active. In any case, some beetle leaf damage will not affect the tree's health or this year's crop.
Astilbes grow best in partial shade. Leaf scorch may occur if the plant is getting too much sun even if the soil is moist. Rock mulch gathers heat and makes that possibility even more likely.
