i think you already did ... lol ... you cut it off ... i have had a few cold FREEZES ... and it looks just like that.. on stuff that was a bit ahead of its time .. i would leave any other damage.. and see if new growth reverts to normal ... how old is this thing ... any recent transplant issues ???? .. what percent of the plant.. all new growth..etc ... more info???? ken

I just re-read your post. The flowers only last about two weeks. After they fall you'll see "little stalks" that will eventually grow berries (if you're lucky). The beetles will defoliate the viburnums. There's pictures on the link above. V. dentatums are one of the viburnums attacked. Are these beetles what you're describing as "bug problems"? If so, I'd contact Cornell & let them know your location & when you first noticed the bugs. I've limited my viburnum plantings to v. 'Shasta' because it seems only to be a matter of time until the beetles reach my area. I don't want to just get a shrub maturing & then lose it to the darn beetles. :( Viburnum doublefile 'Shasta' appears to be resistant. /tricia

Hi menotu, I can't think of a different pest that is the problem (but I'm not an expert). Honestly, it could be a fungal problem. Those cause sunken coppery red spots and are quite common with viburnums. But it very well could be ants. I'm not sure of different pests in Australia, but that should help a bit.

I don't see anything "eating" the leaves in the photo above. And I agree with ken that whatever is present is extremely minor AFA damage is concerned and nothing that requires any treatment. And I would also agree that for most plant issues, now - the beginning of fall - is not the time to treat. These plants are about to start shutting down for the season and will be soon entering dormancy and dropping all their leaves. Should similar issue develop next spring, that would be when (or even if) you should consider some sort of treatment. The spotting on the hydrangea is most likely Cercospora leaf spot, a late season fungal issue that is almost entirely cosmetic in nature. It is caused by high humidity and overhead watering. Just gather up all the leaves when they fall and dispose of them. I also agree with ken that the boxwood would be the only plant I might be concerned about. Boxwood is prone to a very debilitating blight that cannot be controlled and removal is suggested. But we would need to see to confirm that was the issue before you take that drastic step. It is sometimes difficult for new gardeners to accept but perfection in the garden - pristine, unblemished foliage, no insects, no leaf scorch or drying - is contrary to nature. There will always be issues in any garden. It is only through experience or research that you will begin to recognize what is serious and should be treated and what can be safely overlooked or ignored. You'll get there :-))