holly

Holly plants, such as Ilex 'Mesdob' CHINA BOY, usually require thorough, weekly watering during the growing season. During the spring and summer, water the plant slowly and deeply, so that the water can reach the roots. The soil should be kept slightly moist - not soggy - but should also not be allowed to completely dry out. In the winter months when the plant is dormant, you can reduce the amount of water to about once a month, depending on temperature and soil conditions.

Holly (Ilex 'Mesdob' CHINA BOY) prefers full sun throughout the day or at least 6 hours of sun. This plant performs best in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9, where temperatures in summer usually stay between 70-85°F. Planting in partial shade can stunt the growth of this holly variety and cause a decrease in berries produced. Make sure to provide plenty of sun for the China Boy to really shine!

Holly (Ilex 'Mesdob' CHINA BOY) should be pruned twice a year; once in late winter before new growth appears and then again in mid summer to late summer when new growth has slowed down. Late winter pruning should focus on removing dead, diseased, and damaged branches, as well as shaping the shrub and thinning out the canopy. Pruning during the mid summer to late summer time should concentrate on using thinning cuts to make the plant more open and to reduce overcrowding. Rejuvenation can also be done during this time by removing older, thicker branches at the base. When pruning, it is important to remember not to take away too much of the foliage as hollies can become sparse and thin out over time.