I am just wondering if they need fertilizing or something so that the leaves turn green in the summer. They do not look attractive with brown leaves.

Sandy soil, full sun, zone 5. I have been watering 2-3 times per week.

thanks for any advice.

Ours were on the east side of the house. I don't remember an autumn display. I do remember that after some years, they began to develop a mildew that gave off a strong catty smell.

Right by the door.

At least that's how I remember it. It was a long time ago.

I am sure the spent, fallen leaves were trapped by the stubby branches, had to be laboriously picked out of the shrubs - or looked at until they disappeared on their own.

I can still see them sitting there with the soggy brown leaves among poky red vertical twigs, like some kind of overwhelmed office organizational aid in an abandoned building.