holly

Holly is a low-maintenance evergreen shrub that generally requires about 1 to 1.5 inches of water every week during the growing season (spring through fall). To determine if your plant needs water, feel the soil 2 to 3 inches below the surface; if it is dry, provide a thorough soaking. While the plant can tolerate occasional periods of drought, it is important to water regularly to ensure optimal growth. During periods of extreme heat or prolonged drought, water more frequently, providing 1-2 inches of water every 5-7 days. During the winter months, water the Holly sparingly, approximately 1-2 times per month with a light application of water, as the plant will enter a dormant period.

Holly plants thrive in full sunlight and do best when they receive direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. During the summer months, Holly (Ilex 'Magland' OAKLAND) should be in full sunlight all day long. During the winter, when days are shorter, they should receive at least 5 or 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. It’s best to provide Holly plants with all the sunlight they need during the growing season and to reduce exposure during the rest of the year to help them rest and regroup for the next season.

For the Holly (Ilex 'Magland' OAKLAND) plant species it is best to prune it in late winter to early spring. Pruning helps stimulate growth during the season and helps shape the plant into the desired shape. Cut off any dead or damaged branches and avoid removing more than 1-third of the live stems and branches at a time. Prune lightly each year just to control the shape and structure of the plant, as over-pruning can reduce the amount of flowers produced. Renewal pruning, which removes about 1-third of the oldest stems to the ground each year, can be done every 3 to 5 years to help maintain a vigorous growth habit.