Why is my ilex aquifolium (JC van Tol) turning is leaves black?

Sounds like a disease of some kind - if its happening from the bottom up, as you describe, have you checked the trunk of the tree, particularly at the base? Are there any soft or rotting areas, or damage to the base of the trunk?

Hi, no there are no signs of any rotting areas or damage anywhere, just black leaves.

Only other thing I can think of, well, two things, actually, one, could it be drought? You don't say how old the tree is nor how long its been in situ. Two, I note you live in the States - have you had a sudden raise in temperature, sometime in the last 2/3 months, to very hot?

The tree has been insitu for only 3 months and when it was planted it was 5 feet tall. I don't think it is drought but will give it something extra to drink and see how it goes. Thanks

Ah. I'd say its drought - young trees need at least a gallon a week when the weather is dry, and if its hot, they'd need that every other day, and certainly twice a week. It will have those needs for at least a year, and probably up to two years, so keep it well watered when necessary. After that, it should have put good roots down.

Thanks will try that