Question
QUESTION: i have 4 holly trees (2 male 2 female) all within 10 feet of each other, inter twined and well established about 20 feet tall.
For months, I am getting a LOT of yellow leaves dropping. The remaining leaves look healthy and no signs of disease or insects
John Ciafre
Newark, Delaware

ANSWER: John:
I do not suspect an infectious disease based on your description. There may be some soil related issue such as a fertilizer imbalance or even a soil moisture thing. Consider a simple soil test or the addition of a general purpose fertilizer. Examine the bases of these plants for any signs of bark damage too.

Steve

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I have a dwarf peach tree 3 years old. which I'm told will yield a full size fruit. The past two years, the peaches have brown circular spots and the leaves have many small black specks which appear to be between the leaf layers. I've yet enjoyed a harvest.
Some research I did recommended a fungicide, but I am concerned using a fungicide on fruit trees.  My newly planted plum is nearby

Answer
Hi John:
It is best to get your two problems properly identified before taking any course of action. There are several infectious disease and insects that can be problems on the stone fruits. Someone will probably need to examine an appropriate sample of each problem on the fruit and leaves.  Suggest that you contact your local county Agricultural Extension office and arrange for a sample to be collected and examine in a lab situation.  Every county has an Extension office, usually located in the county courthouse.  Someone there may actually be able to make a "house call" to see your tree and answer questions.  Another resource is your local nursery/garden center (not the big box store types).  In many instances the local nursery/garden center may be able to ID the problems.  Just snip off a twig w/affected leaves and carry 2-3 affected fruit in to these folks.

If you want to try your local Extension office and cannot find a telephone number, drop me an email with the name of your county of residence and I may be able to locate a number for you to call. My personal email is [email protected]   Just mention our emails as a reminder.

Steve