![]() In general, independent nurseries know more about taking care of plants, and as well can better inform you of how to take care of plants. Apply a thin layer of mulch over the root ball, but no soil.Ĥ- Buy replacements from a local independent nursery that selectively hand waters their plants. If this is not the case, you will need to raise the plants. The top surface of the root ball should be exposed and be slightly above ground level with no soil piled on top. Prune at least 6 inches below the dead part of the stem.ģ- Make sure that the Hollies were not planted below ground level. Neem oil is labeled to control spider Mites.ġ- Return the dead Hollies and get a refund.Ģ- Prune all of the dead growth from the remaining Hollies. Control of spider Mites can be achieved by spraying with Neem Oil. If you see little red specks crawling on the paper you will know that it is probably spider mites. Tap the plant to knock the spider Mites on to the paper. To check for spider Mites hold a white piece of paper under the leaves where they turn from brown to green. Sky Pencil hollies are also susceptible to spider mites. This knot restricts the flow of water and nutrients to the stem. Dieback is a non-curable disease that forms knots in the stems and branches of plants. I've also seen Sky pencil Hollies get die back. This is very common at the big box stores. If Cosco employees over watered the Hollies root rot could have set in before you took them out of the store. Over watering, or too much watering of the foliage can cause big problems with Sky Pencil Hollies. Sky Pencil Hollies are extremely susceptible to root rot. Famous for its good looks, from our nations capital to your backyard, the Sky Pencil Holly is a popular, versatile evergreen tree. The only time I would recommend peat moss is for raised annual flower beds where retaining moisture in the soil is sometimes needed or as one of the components in a potting mix that will be used in container gardens.) Any type of soil amendment that improves drainage is good. I always recommend a soil amendment or conditioner that contains decomposed bark matter or fines as it's base. In heavy soils that tend to hold water, such as the clay-based soil we have here in Georgia, peat moss is not the best choice for soil amendment. I'm not sure what type of native soil you have in your area? However, keep in mind that peat moss holds nine times its weight in water. As Brooks suggested, check the soil to make sure it's not too wet and return the dead plants and try to get an exchange or a refund. Big box stores just don't have the facility or the knowledgeable staff that knows how to properly care for plants. I would also highly recommend purchasing plants from a local independent nursery and garden center that takes care of their plants. That being said, I've also heard from quite a few folks about the die-back Brooks mentioned that is most likely caused by consistently wet or soggy soil, which leads to root rot. Most folks are using them in foundation plantings where height and a narrow plant is needed. When driving around neighborhoods in our area (Atlanta metro) I see nice healthy Sky Pencil holly everywhere.Avoid saturated soils to prevent fungal issues in Hollies. For severe infections the pesticide Bonide is recommended. These can be treated with horticultural oil. Mites and scale are insects that can occasionally affect your Sky Pencil Holly. ![]() Proper location choice, watering, and fertilization are the keys to your success. The best way to prevent disease and pests is by providing the appropriate care for your plants. In cooler zones, 5 and 6, protect your sky pencil holly from wind. ![]() Heavy pruning is best reserved for late winter or early spring. Sky Pencils don't require pruning, but they tolerate it well if you prefer to keep them a certain size. Fertilize in spring with a slow release fertilizer for broadleaf evergreens. After Sky Pencils are established, they only need watered during hot, dry spells. Water your Holly deeply a couple times a week for the first few months. Do not allow the mulch to touch the trunk as this increases the chances of pests and disease. ![]() Mulching is highly recommended in cooler zones to protect the plant's roots in winter as well. After planting, adding a layer of 2 to 3 inches of mulch will help keep the soil moist. They prefer a slightly acidic soil, but tend to adapt just about any well draining soil. As long as you avoid extreme temperatures you can plant your Holly almost any time of the year. Be sure to choose the appropriate location for your Sky Pencil Holly aka Japanese Holly Sky Pencil. ![]()
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