Question

Pencil tree   Can you tell me what might be happening to this Pencil tree? I lost a couple last year after they started looking like this?
Thank you,
Jerry

Answer
Hi Jerry,
Thanx for your question. This looks like a pencil holly tree/shrub right?  It looks like it is having hydration issues.  One of two things either too much (they don't like wet feet) and the water is not draining well from the soil or, not enough water.  They need to be watered once a week during periods of drought.  The damage can also be caused phythophthora root rot which can be alleviated by reducing the moisture in the soil.  I hope this helps.
Tom