Diagnosing Sudden Decline in 15-Year-Old Euonymus

Large euonymus (15+ ft, 15+ years) suddenly half-dead this spring: bare branches, stunted leaves, red stems falling. No insects, trunk damage, or visible scale. Photos show diseased foliage.

Expert "Coach Dave" Assessment

• Shock: transplant, chemical, temp change (usually new growth only).
• Scale: despite denial, symptoms match—be thorough checking.
• Anthracnose (fungus): treatable with copper fungicide.

Action Plan

1. Cut off ALL diseased branches/leaves (including ground debris). Dispose.
2. Spray with fungicide: Neem Oil or Daconil. Multiple applications needed.

Fungus suspected as primary; scale not ruled out. Sanitation + fungicide = best shot.