Holly Problem – Continued

Question

Thanks again for taking the trouble to answer, and provide some further links. I have just been out and taken some more pics, which I’ll upload. There is no doubt that the stem which has turned brown is dying. There is no moisture at all when I cut the stem, and the leaves are crinkly and totally dry. There are 3 main stems – this being one, another which is starting to turn brown, and the third looks green, glossy and thriving…I can see no bugs, or any sign of scale or anything attached to the stem or leaves. I have no idea what the ph level is, but the 2 adjacent hollies are doing well, as this one was until 6 weeks ago. And the remaining part of the original plant looks great! IanL

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Answer 1

Those are much better, and detailed photos, which are necessary to help determine what could be the issue.

This is likely caused by the bacteria, Erwinia. The same treatments that I mentioned before will still stand, though bacterial infections like this have no cure. They are very persistent, and will live in the soil.

These infections are usually brought about by pruning with instruments that have not been sterilized prior to use, then transferred to the soil when infected material falls from the plant.

Copper based fungicides are, still, the appropriate method of treatment, while keeping all debris cut off of and away from the plant.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/fire-blight-remedies-and-symptoms.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/what-is-copper-fungicide.htm