My beautiful, previously healthy butterfly bush suddenly has yellow leaves beginning in the center and coming up the main stalk. It has been very hot and dry and I have watered it every day.
Heat stress can cause the yellowing leaves, as can overwatering. I know it's hot and shrubs look wilted but it isn't always because they need more water. Wilting is the plants defense against the hot weather where it tries to conserve moisture. Usually the wilting disappears overnight and the plant looks fine the next morning. By watering everyday you are essentially suffocating the roots - wet soils exclude oxygen which can suffocate roots. Instead of watering every day, water deeply once or twice a week. Deep watering will encourage deep root growth which is what you want. Cooler roots and moist soil will help your Butterfly Bush endure the summer weather. Adjust your watering schedule and the yellowing should stop. Best wishes with your butterfly bush.
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