Ilex Aquafolium (Common/English Holly)

Usually erect, dense, evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy, dark green leaves that are spine toothed. White flowers appear spring to early summer, followed by red or rarely orange berries. Eventual unclipped height 25 metres

Uses in the garden

Can be grown as a small tree but its best use is for hedging and is very good for formal hedging or as a preventative barrier

Growth rate

On average Holly will grow 10-12”a year in ideal soil conditions

Best to plant...

Grow in moist, but well-drained moderately fertile, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade.

 Looking after your Holly plants

Trim Holly in the summer

Helpful hints

Make sure all soil is well prepared before planting takes place. This will include...
Clearing the area of all perennial weeds (i.e. Nettle, docks, thistles, couch grass) this can be done easily by applying a residual herbicide (Glyphosate) to the area 2-3 weeks prior to planting.
Prepare the soil area well by digging over to a minimum spades depth (12-16”) and width. Incorporate organic matter into the soil (i.e. compost, well rotted manure, well rotted garden waste) this will aid plant establishment and retain moisture in drier soils.
Only plant up to the soil mark on the stem of the plant, this is easily spotted, look just above where the roots of the plant start and you will see the mark. Water plants thoroughly once planted and then on a regular basis until the plants are well established. Bear in mind weather conditions and water more in hot, dry spells and less in prolonged heavy rain spells.

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