winterberry

Winterberry (Ilex verticillata 'Jim Dandy') should be watered regularly. During the active growing season, water often enough to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water the plant deeply and thoroughly, then allow it to dry out slightly between waterings. During the winter months, when the plants are dormant, reduce the frequency of watering to once every few weeks or so. In the fall, before the ground freezes, give the plant a deep (but not flooding) watering to help the roots through the cold season. Winterberry grows best in moist, acid soil.

Winterberry (Ilex verticillata 'Jim Dandy') is an incredibly adaptable and hardy plant that prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and flowering. If planted in full sun, it should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day, or an equivalent amount of indirect sunlight. If located in a partially shaded area, the winterberry should receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight or equivalent indirect sunlight each day. In order for this plant species to reach its maximum growth potential, it is important to properly space and stagger plants in order to maximize the sun exposure for each individual plant.

Winterberry (Ilex verticillata 'Jim Dandy') should be pruned in late winter when the plant is dormant. It is best to prune it back to approximately where it started before winter (roughly 12-18 inches off the ground). This will allow the plant to develop a thick, full shape when the new growth begins in the spring. Be sure to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Pruning can be done with hand shears or electric shears depending on the size of the plant.