Mature Holly Sudden Defoliation: Winter Desiccation from Temperature Swing

Cause

Warm Dec/Jan spell followed by deep freeze = winter desiccation. Holly transpired during warm spell, then roots frozen couldn't replace water.

Heavy spring fertilization to force new growth.

Shrubs: Cottony Camellia Scale on Holly: Fall Treatment Window; Holly Bush Decline Linked to Poor Drainage and Excess Water; Holly Aphids: Why They Don't Spread to All Plants; Flies on Holly Bush: Likely Attracted to Flowers; Contact Local Extension; Holly Bush Covered in Yellow "Flowers" in May: It's Pollen!; Holly Leaf Spot: Fungicide Too Late Now, Plan for Spring; Holly Leaf Miner Control: Systemic Insecticide Timing and Life Cycle; China Boy/Girl Holly Decline: Soil Testing and Professional Tree Care; Holly Bush Dying: Scale Insects or Winter Injury; Bees on Holly Berries: Beneficial Pollination Activity

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