The following was received via email: I have have a lonicera vine(honeysuckle) which was propigated at UBC. Its growing extremely well but last summer it got a severe blight that seemed to destroy the leaves. It is planted in clay soil on the west side of a fence and gets reasonable sun for about 6 hours. Is there a way of preventing this blight or should I move it to a different location and if so where?
Your Mandarin honeysuckle probably has a mildew problem. This could be the result of rainy seasons and/or overhead watering. If the latter, we suggest you only water from the base of the plant. Try to have plenty of space around the plant & prune so that there will be good air circulation. If problem persists, one may use a teaspoon of baking soda and a teaspoon of Safer's soap in one gallon of water. Clean up & destroy infected leaves by throwing out in the garbage.
