Spots on hydrangea leaves are likely a fungus. Spray, but don't cut them back: Dan Gill's advice

There are brown spots with purple edges on the leaves of my hydrangeas. They are still producing some small flowers and new growth. But new growth becomes spotted as it appears. Is there anything I can do? Beryl

This is Cercospora leaf spot, a fungal disease that commonly attacks hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) in summer. The disease is encouraged by rainy weather. We have gotten regular rainfall this summer and Cercospora leaf spot has been widespread.

The drier weather we are currently experiencing may help, but using a fungicide regularly can help minimize additional spotting. Spraying every seven to 10 days with chlorothalonil (Daconil and other brands) now through the end of October should help prevent the spotting of leaves not yet infected. In the future, begin treatment from e