Holly Bush Pest

Question

I have a holly bush in a pot on the patio and recently I have noticed scaley lumps on the leaves. It is swarming in ants and some of the berries are turning black and drying out. Is there anything I can do to help it, as I really don’t want it to die?

Answer 1

It could be scale or mealybugs, which can be treated with neem oil. These articles should help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/scale-bug-how-to-control-plant-scale.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/mealybugs-white-residue-on-plants-leaves.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm