Dark Brown or Black Leaves on Holly Bush

Question

Underneath the new growth on our holly bushes we have some leaves that appear to be brown or black. Is this normal, or something we should take care of? The bushes have many berries and appear to be healthy otherwise.

Answer 1

It may be a pest issue that is also causing sooty mold. I would treat the plant with neem oil. This will take care of the pests and the sooty mold. Here is more information on neem oil: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm