This time of the year produces smaller leaves due to lack on sunlight. They also do not look as deep dark green. But there could be insects at play causing problems. Can you post some close-ups of the leaves and check them at night to see if you catch any insects on top of or below the leaves?

Hi Luis,
I can probably post a picture in a day or two, will need DH's assistance, and I 'm assuming he knows how. It's also happening to my variegated hydrangea. They are all separated from one another. I saw no evidence of insects on the underside of the leaves. What about mites?

Hello, sandyinva. Yes, mites can be a source of distorted growth, specially new growth. They are tiny pests noticeable when you have webbing between leaves. They suck cell contents from leaf tissue eventually making the leaf turn yellow or brown. Perhaps the infestation is starting so the webbing is not noticeable. Here is another way to check.

Place a piece of 8.5 by 11" white paper underneath a branch and shake it. If mites are present, some will be dislodged from the leaves and fall onto the paper, where they will be noticed as tiny moving specks.

Mites are usually a problem during hot weather and fall temps should alleviate the problem. Adequate watering of plants during hot weather is the best preventative against mite problems. Adequate watering of plants during hot weather is the best preventative against mite problems.

Miticides (such as Spectracide Permethrin Insect Control, Bonide Kelthane, Schultz Houseplants and Gardens Insect Spray and others) can be used but follow the instructions on the label; they are best used alternating with other types of pesticides, such as soaps and oils (like Safer Insecticidal Soap & Sunspray Ultra-fine Spary Oil). This prevents the mites from developing tolerance to the miticides. You can also use lacewing larvae, parasitic wasps and ladybugs to control an infestation.

Does that help you?
Luis

Luis,

I had a mite problem with african violets some years ago, and this definitely has similarities: the leaves are hard, and smaller. Our weather has been hot and dry for way too long. I think, since we are at endof season, and not May, that after supper I will go out and prune off the branch tips that are afflicted. Leaves will be dropping before too long, and that hopefully will end it.
What do you think? Mites can't winter over in below freezing conditions, can they?

Gosh , will it ever reach 32? Here it is nearly mid October and 92 degrees.

Sandy

No, but the eggs they develop still stay out there. Did you try to shake the branches above a sheet of paper? If you see insects the size of a period "." moving then you found spider mites. When checking the leaves, a 10x hand lens or magnifier will be needed to detect the eggs and all stages of mites. Look on the underside of the leaves for cast skins and empty eggshells, too.