This is the second season of having my fatsias. They are planted in a shaded area as recommended. Last year they did well, this year it doesn't appear that they are. It's losing leaves around the bottom. Is this normal? It also has leaves that don't appear very healthy. Instead of being it's normal lush green they're dull and even yellowing. It does have new growth so that's reassuring. Any advice would be very much appreciated!

They look fine.
Older leaves will yellow and be discarded.

I would also clear up some of pine and leaf litter from around the base. You can also apply some tree and shrub fertilizer.

Calif_Sue said: I would also clear up some of pine and leaf litter from around the base.

Why?
I know that some people clean out the mulch... I've just never understood making extra work for oneself...

Some people remove the mulch, put down fresh...

I'd as soon keep the nutrients...

@stone I also wondered why it was suggested to remove the pine needles. They were put there intentionally, they are our ground cover of choice because they help hold moisture in the ground during our hot Georgia summers. Maybe not something they use as ground cover in northern California, perhaps. We will be removing and refreshing them this season but they're staying.

melandme63 said: We will be removing and refreshing them this season but they're staying.

I've read that mulch is sometimes removed up north, to allow the soil to warm up.
Not something desirable here.
Personally, I never remove the old mulch... It breaks down and provides nutrients, the same as regular compost.

(I corrected earlier post)

Mulch is almost a necessity in Florida. We would never remove it. It helps retain water, helps keep the soil from overheating, and discourages weeds.