Black Deposit on Holly

Question

I have two standard hollies in pots. One has started to develop a black sooty deposit on some of its leaves which easily wipes off. No insect pests are visible. Is this likely to be terminal?

Answer 1

It sounds like sooty mold, which is a symptom of several kinds of pests that can attack hollies. I recommend treating the plants with neem oil. This will kill any pests on the plant and treat the sooty mold as well. This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/problems/pests/neem-oil-uses.htm