Euonymus Fortunei Leaf Drop and Brown Edges: Underwatering or Scale?

Hardy euonymus dropped leaves with brown edges in spring. Dormant spray halted drop temporarily, but symptoms returned on lower leaves after a month. Wood chip mulch complicates leaf cleanup.

Expert Opinion

Melissa thinks the plant is underwatered—most common cause of leaf drop and brown edges. New plants need water every 2–3 days. Dormant oil would have killed scale if present. Check soil moisture; if not dry, spray neem oil to cover any mites or residual insects. If no improvement, consider relocating the plant.