Variegated Pieris Struggling: Check Soil pH First

My variegated Pieris (planted 5/17/09) gets morning + late afternoon sun. Watered diligently but declining. What's wrong?

Pieris Demands Acid Soil

Non-negotiable: pH 4.5–6.0. Alkaline soil (lime) causes yellowing, stunting, death.

Immediate Steps

1. Test soil (kit from garden center).
2. If alkaline: Dig up; pot in ericaceous (lime-free) compost. Use rainwater only (tap water often alkaline).
3. If acid: You're likely overwatering. Water only after 3–4 dry days.

Light Note

Morning sun + late afternoon = good. Avoid hot midday sun.

Soil pH is the #1 Pieris killer. Fix that first.