Q.Replacement Hollies
Fungus killed my Nellie stevens. Can I replace with Burfords Hollie’s?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
You may want to choose a plant of a different species. Whatever killed your first holly could still be in the soil and could attack the new holly. Often, the pathogen is species specific.
You also can sterilize the soil, but it takes six to eight weeks. Adding lots of compost to the soil also can help alleviate contaminates. Be sure to pick up and destroy any dropped leaves.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/planting-in-old-spaces.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/shgen/full-sun-evergreens.htm