Leucothoe is prone to a fungal leaf spot, Cylindrocladium scoparium, that affects a wide range of both edible and ornamental plants. When well advanced, it can cause defoliation as well as a morph into a root rot that can cause stunted growth and even death. While this is frequently prompted by overhead watering (as are many other types of fungal leaf spots), it also occurs with leucothoe when the plants are stressed. Siting them properly will help. Leucothoe are a raparian species - that is, they prefer to grow naturally adjacent to waterways or along stream banks. From that you should interpret that they are NOT drought tolerant! They are also not happy in full sun.

Adjusting these conditions, if they exist, will help the plants. And you can also apply a fungicide. Benomyl is registered for this purpose.

describe the light , heat and water variables in front of there house ... those variables gal listed ...

if not proper for this plant ... move them to more shade.. were they can be damper ...

and replant the front of the house ... i agree its not a spot for renovation projects ...

a pic of the house front.. and your location .. might get you some replacement ideas ...

ken

ps: or just get rid of them.. lifes too short.. to mess with chemicals.. on foo foo plants ... live and learn ..

Thank you, Garden Gal and Ken. I think you are right. Probably too much sun in hindsight and I will likely just throw them out and find something else. I like your suggestion of posting a photo for replacement suggestions. I will try that.