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have a hydrangea shrub and the leaves have brown spots on them. Is there anything I can do about this?

Sara, Bristol

AHydrangeas

are usually pretty low maintenance shrubs, but what you are describing is quite common. It’s a leaf spot disease which can be either a bacterial or fungal infection. It can happen in high humidity, when it’s warm and moist and there’s little air flow.

If you get it early and it’s affecting just a few of the bottom leaves you can remove these and sometimes that stops the spread.

Otherwise you should be careful how you water – direct the hose at the base of the plant and try not to water overhead. If possible, increase air circulation around the plant.

Hydrangeas love water, but it’s best at the roots.