How to Save a Dying Nellie Stevens Holly Tree
Nellie Stevens Holly Trees can be easily manipulated into the desired shape. They are usually planted to form a living privacy wall but can also be allowed to grow in a natural pyramidal form. At maturity, the tree is between 15 and 25 feet tall. Without pruning, healthy Nellie Stevens trees can grow as much as 3 feet annually. Disease is not common, but as with any tree, the holly can be prone to attacks from insects such as aphids which produce a substance that leads to a black surface growth called sooty mold.
Prune wilting, damaged and dying leaves. Cut them off where they meet healthy wood. Make clean, non-ragged cuts.
- Nellie Stevens Holly Trees can be easily manipulated into the desired shape.
- Without pruning, healthy Nellie Stevens trees can grow as much as 3 feet annually.
Remove black soil that may be growing at the base of the Nellie Stevens Holly tree. Put it and the dying leaves in a plastic bag for disposal. Do not leave it on the ground or in a compost pile because the disease can spread.
Thin out the branches and foliage growing at the bottom of Nellie Stevens. This will allow air to circulate more freely. Sunlight will also be better able to reach the bark and soil.
Keep weeds at bay. They will encourage pest and insect infestations. Pull or rake them away from the holly tree.
- Remove black soil that may be growing at the base of the Nellie Stevens Holly tree.
Use a registered insecticide at the first sign of mealybugs, aphids or whiteflies. Follow the instructions on the label pertaining to application and precautions. There are also organic products on the market.
Check drainage around the Nellie Stevens Holly Tree. If the water is pooling, this can cause the tree to die. You may need to add sand to the soil or dig a trench to enhance drainage .
Tip
Sterilize pruning shears by wiping a cotton ball soaked with rubbing alcohol over the blades. Check the roots for root rot. This can't be treated with chemicals. You may need to dig up and dispose of the tree.
Warning
Do not use pruning shears for more than one cut when dealing with diseased foliage--unless you first sterilize them.
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References
Tips
- Sterilize pruning shears by wiping a cotton ball soaked with rubbing alcohol over the blades.
- Check the roots for root rot. This can't be treated with chemicals. You may need to dig up and dispose of the tree.
Warnings
- Do not use pruning shears for more than one cut when dealing with diseased foliage--unless you first sterilize them.
Writer Bio
Based in New York State, Kelly Shetsky started writing in 1999. She is a broadcast journalist-turned Director of Marketing and Public Relations and has experience researching, writing, producing and reporting. She writes for several websites, specializing in gardening, medical, health and fitness, entertainment and travel. Shetsky has a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Marist College.
