Pencil Holly Leaf Drop: Nematodes or Pot-Bound? Alabama Case

Case

3-yr-old pencil holly (Ilex sp.) in pot by door (AL). Leaves dropping middle to top; new growth at top. One of two plants affected.

Kathy suggests Atomic Grow for nematode/bug issues: "raises plant bricks" (sic — likely Brix), cleans leaves, repels pests organically.

One plant fine, one declining in same conditions = root-specific issue (nematodes, pot-bound, localized pathogen).
Repot affected plant: inspect roots. Knots = nematodes. Circling = pot-bound.
Nematodes in pots: solarize old soil (clear plastic, 4–6 wks sun) or discard.

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Garden Articles

Plants

Cause	Evidence	Action
Pot-bound	Roots circling, soil depleted	Repot larger, fresh mix
Spider mites	Fine stippling, webbing	Insecticidal soap, humidity
Nematodes	Root knots, decline in South	Atomic Grow (claimed); solarize soil
Cold injury	Winter damage showing now	Wait for spring flush