Question
QUESTION: Dr. Vann,
I recently purchased a couple of holly bushes ( yellow variety). The leaves are turning brown and drying. I have been watering and the soil seems moist. Could it be something different than a water issue?

ANSWER: Belinda:
If the entire plant looks brown, then I would be suspicious of a root/ soil issue. Doesn't sound like a bono fife contagious disease. Have a look at the roots for a good creamy white color rather than brown/black.

Steve

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

QUESTION: We are experiencing an early drought this May/June and temperatures have remained near 100 degree mark. The holly's are planted on the south side and get full sun for at leat 6 hours. How frequent should my watering be?

Answer
Belinda:
If you have an appreciable amount of sand in the soil, more often irrigations required than say clay content.  Dig down and feel the soil in the root zone area (4-6 inches).  It should stick to your fingers or "ball up" some, not like dust.

If your plant is turning brown, it may have reached the "point of no return" no matter how much you water it.

Steve