What Is Wrong With My Holly Bushes?

Identification

• Hollies are susceptible to the dematophora root rot caused by Dematophora or Rosellinia necatrix fungi. The disease is also referred to as white rot. Fungal growth is favored by wet and mild weather. The soil-borne pathogen infects plants through the roots.

Damage

• The disease is characterized by a rapid decline in plant health starting from either certain portions or all areas of the plant. Infected plants start to wilt, yellow and brown. With progression, there is extensive branch dieback. The dry foliage often remains attached to dead branches. White mats of fungal growth are seen on lower trunk or in soil around plant. Plants die rapidly from the disease.

Control

• Remove and discard infected plants immediately to minimize spread of disease. Use well-drained soil for planting. Obtain healthy plants from reliable sources. There are no fungicidal control options for this affliction.