Holly Berries Shrivel and Fall Off

Question

My American holly bush gets full of berries in the spring, then they shrivel up, turn black and fall off. What’s the problem?

Answer 1

Oftentimes, this is due to poor pollination. If not properly pollinated, the berries will drop before they are fully mature. Lots of times changes in temperature, lots of rain, or a lack of pollinating insects are the cause. There is probably nothing that you can do for this year, but next year you need to take steps to make sure that the shrubs can be properly pollinated. These articles will offer suggestions for improving pollination: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/insect-pollination-process.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/creating-a-pollinator-garden.htm