Holly Tree

Question

I have a holly tree in a container and the leaves have like a black grit on them that comes off when wiped and the underside has biege colored larvae. What can the problem be? The branches look a grey color on top but greener on the underside.

Answer 1

It sounds like sooty mold, which is a symptom of several kinds of pests that can attack hollies. I recommend treating the plants with neem oil. This will kill any pests on the plant and treat the sooty mold as well. This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/problems/pests/neem-oil-uses.htm