Question
Last fall I planted 4 holly girl & boy shrubs. This spring the leaves are drying up and falling off. This is the second group of bushes that I have planted. Last time only one took and is doing great. The bushes are planted were the get the morning sun for the most part. There are also two large crab trees planted in front of the bushes.

Answer
Susan,

I would check the area that you are planting in. If this is the second group that you are planting, I would have to say that there may be a drainage problem. Hollies do not do well in areas where there is poor drainage or in heavy clay soils. Too much water will kill off the roots, causing them to die back. I would recommend that you amend the soil with a good quality compost to improve drainage and also to raise the organic matter in the soil. Be careful with the watering, do not over water during the spring and fall.

Good luck,
Ed Gulliksen