My Holly Tree Is Dying

Question

I purchased an 8-foot Holly tree last fall and it was beautiful. I planted it on a clay slope and the ball of the plant was exposed. A couple of months ago,  I was concerned this would cause problems, so I boxed it in with drainage rocks and shrub soil. Within the last month I have noticed the tree is turning a yellowish tint on the outside and the leaves inside the tree are brown and falling off. Do you know why this would occur?

Answer 1

There are several reasons this might occur. These articles will help you better pinpoint what it might be:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/holly/diseases-of-holly-bushes-pests-and-diseases-damaging-holly-bushes.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/holly/holly-yellow-leaves.htm