Diagnosing Sudden Rose of Sharon Death

A row of 4-year-old Rose of Sharon had one die (black, dead grass circle), then others yellowing with brown grass spots. Suspected intentional poisoning.

Alternative Causes

• Herbicide drift from weed-and-feed (very sensitive).
• Root rot from wet soil.
• Vole root feeding.
• Fungal disease (excess water or drought).

Investigation

• Soil/tissue testing for chemicals (expensive, slow).
• Local garden center, county agent, or Master Gardener may do site visit.

Without lab proof, cultural/environmental causes are more likely than malice.