Question
On some of my "little gem" evergreen shrubs, parts are becoming brown and bare.The foliage is completely gone in these areas and all that is left are the stems which are brown and dry. Other areas on the shrub look healthy but it seems to be spreading.

Answer
Sharon,

If these are Boxwoods, which I think theyare, there could be several reasons for the die back. There is a type of canker that will cause this pattern of damage, as well as several types of insects.

For a proper diagnosis and remedy, I would recommend calling a tree care company to examine the plants and recommend a program for their care.

Good luck,
Ed Gulliksen