Root rot pathogens are often introduced into the landscape on diseased container plants. To avoid introducing these pathogens, purchase hollies with healthy roots and good foliage color. May. These turn reddish-brown and finally black by fall. In years of heavy rainfall berries as well as leaves are spotted. They live in organic matter in the soil or on roots and other parts of living plants.
Most parasitic nematodes feed by a stylet, sucking juices from plant cells.
They injure plants by direct feeding or wounding tissue, making an entrance for other disease organisms. Plant decline is often the only symptom, followed by gradual stunting, chlorosis, and leaf drop. Remove infected plant material and surrounding soil. Plant resistant varieties in nematode-free soil. Mites are not insects, but are more closely related to spiders.