How to Grow an American Holly Tree

Plant American holly in moist, well-draining soil with a pH below 6.5. Before planting American holly trees, dig compost or peat moss into the soil to improve drainage. Amend alkaline soils with sulfur and use acidifying fertilizers. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball, and at least twice as wide.

How fast do American holly trees grow?
How do you take care of a American holly tree?
Where is the best place to plant a holly tree?
How do you start a holly tree?
Does Holly need full sun?
Do birds eat holly berries?
Is Holly easy to grow?
Is Holly poisonous?
What is a holly tree good for?
How long do holly trees live?
Are holly trees invasive?
Do holly trees have deep roots?

How fast do American holly trees grow?

Growth Rate

This tree grows at a slow to medium rate, with height increases of anywhere from less than 12" to 24" per year.

How do you take care of a American holly tree?

American holly trees can take all types of soil but prefer slightly acidic, good draining, sandy soil. American holly trees perform well in shade and full sun but prefer partial sun. These trees like regular and even moisture but they can also tolerate some flooding, occasional drought and ocean salt spray.

Where is the best place to plant a holly tree?

The best location for planting holly bushes is in well-drained but not dry, slightly acidic soil in full sun. That being said, most hollies are very tolerant of less than ideal locations and will grow well in part shade or dry or swampy soil.

How do you start a holly tree?

Collect holly berries and break the skin off. Rinse the seeds in cold water and then plant them in soilless potting medium within a large flat. Cover the flats and place outdoors in a protected area over the winter. If all goes well, the holly seeds should germinate by spring.

Does Holly need full sun?

Holly bushes do best in well-drained, moderately acidic soil, in full sun. They don't like to be transplanted, so think carefully about where you'll plant. 2. Pick the right time to plant.

Do birds eat holly berries?

Holly plants are excellent bird feeders and the fruits are very desirable to birds. Some fruits from plants like Viburnums and Holly plants may not be the first fruits to be taken by birds. ... Holly berries will not harm the birds feeding on them so be sure to include them in your backyard wildlife refuge.

Is Holly easy to grow?

Hollies are easy to grow – they will grow in sun or partial shade, and prefer moist but well drained soil. The variegated varieties keep their colours better in full sun. Hollies can be grown as specimen plants in a lawn, or in a mixed or shrub border, and some make excellent hedges – great for garden security.

Is Holly poisonous?

Holly leaves, branches and berries are beautiful holiday decorations, but the berries are poisonous to people and pets. Swallowing holly berries can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and drowsiness. ... Holly leaves might also cause symptoms if eaten but, because they are prickly, children usually leave them alone.

What is a holly tree good for?

English holly, Oregon holly, and American holly are used as ornamental Christmas greens. The leaves of other holly species (especially Ilex opaca, Ilex vomitoria, and Ilex aquifolium) are used to make medicine. ... Other holly species are used for treating heart disease, dizziness, and high blood pressure.

How long do holly trees live?

The Holly plant does grow pretty slow, but can eventually attain a height of around 30-50 feet in a compact pyramid shape. If planted in the right conditions and decently cared for some hollies can live up to 100 years or longer.

Are holly trees invasive?

Holly Isn't Noxious, But it is Invasive

Very few culturally and economically significant species receive the noxious weed designation. Although not listed as noxious, holly is widely recognized as an invasive plant in our region. ... Holly is a large, slow growing evergreen, usually found as a shrub or small tree.

Do holly trees have deep roots?

Incredibly hardy, holly plants have an extensive, deep root system that allows them to establish themselves easily and compete well for nutrients and water. Even the hardiest plants can be affected by factors that prevent them from flowering and bearing berries.