Brand New Planted Hollie’s – Leaves Falling Off

Question

Hello, I bought (5) 30g Nellie Steven’s from a nursery. They were in containers. Had them planted and within a week the leaves started to brown and fall off in some spots. Should I be concerned? They are on a slope and get decent drainage though the soil is much like clay. I have been watering them enough. They were expensive so I just want to make sure they aren’t dying.

Answer 1

It's not uncommon for newly transplanted trees to experience some stress, especially if they were recently planted and are adjusting to their new environment. Browning and dropping leaves can be a sign of transplant shock, which is a temporary condition that occurs when a plant's roots are disturbed during transplanting. To help your Nellie Stevens holly trees recover, there are several steps you can take. First, ensure that your trees are receiving adequate water, especially during the establishment period after transplanting. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as clay soil can retain water. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the trees can help retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature. Additionally, good drainage is essential, so consider amending the soil with organic matter such as compost to improve drainage if needed. Keep a close eye on your trees and monitor their condition regularly. While some leaf browning and dropping may occur initially, if the symptoms persist or worsen, it could indicate underlying issues such as overwatering, underwatering, or root problems. Finally, be patient and give your trees some time to acclimate to their new environment. If you're concerned about the health of your trees, consider reaching out to the nursery where you purchased them or consulting with a local arborist for further guidance and assistance. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific growing conditions and help ensure the long-term health and vitality of your trees

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/holly/nellie-stevens-holly-care.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/what-is-extension-service.htm