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Ilex cloud tree not growing new leaves - advice please?

AcermaniaAcermania Posts: 19
in Problem solving
Hello all, I’ve had this ilex cloud tree for 2 years now and in that time it hasn’t grown much. It’s now looking more bare on one side of the tree. How do I get it to grow bushy again? Should I water it more, or perhaps fertilise it with some seaweed liquid? 

Thank you. 



Posts

  • amancalledgeorgeamancalledgeorge Posts: 2,736
    Can you give us more information on the growing conditions, a couple more photos showing the whole plant would help too. Thanks!
    To Plant a Garden is to Believe in Tomorrow
  • AcermaniaAcermania Posts: 19
    Hello, please see photo of the whole plant. When planted 2 years ago, I added some multi purpose, grit and organic matter to the soil, and have regularly watered and occasional fed with seaweed fertiliser. It’s planted on the west side of the garden. Many thanks. 
  • amancalledgeorgeamancalledgeorge Posts: 2,736
    Having all that gravel really hides the condition of the soil and how dry it must be...wonder if it really would help to clear a nice area around it and give it a good deep watering, doesn't look hugely sad or anything. Also remove that solar light that's attached so close to it. With the current heatwave I'd expect that gravel must hold the heat in creating more dryness. Let's see what other forum members say. 
    To Plant a Garden is to Believe in Tomorrow
  • AcermaniaAcermania Posts: 19
    Thanks for the tips amancalledgeorge - I will try that tomorrow. Just puzzled why it hasn’t grown much leaves in the past 2 years, I’m scared to prune it too much into shape but perhaps do I need to, to encourage growth? And the section on the right seems to be losing leaves a lot. 

  • ButtercupdaysButtercupdays Posts: 4,546
    edited June 2023
    I'm wondering whether you might have 3 separate trees planted together, rather than just one, with the left hand tree hogging most of the available food and water, as there does seem to be some disparity in growth. The right hand plant may also be exposed to more sun or wind, perhaps from the way the fence shadow falls. Certainly if the drainage is good then watering more frequently, especially in hot weather and targetting the one on the right should help redress the balance and do no harm.
  • AcermaniaAcermania Posts: 19
    Thank you so much Buttercupdays!! Appreciate the tips. 
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