Slow and compact growing, evergreen with small leaves - the Japanese holly is ideal for planting a hedge. Depending on the type, you can create a low or high hedge with the holly.
How do you plant and care for a Japanese holly hedge?
To plant a hedge with Japanese holly (Ilex crenata), choose a sunny to partially shaded location and slightly moist, slightly acidic soil. Water regularly, fertilize and trim branches to maintain shape. Be careful of poisonous berries within reach of children.
The Japanese holly (lat. Ilex crenata) is now often used as a substitute for boxwood because it has similar leaves to it. In contrast to boxwood, Japanese holly develops pale white flowers in summer and then decorative black berries. However, these are poisonous and should not be left in the hands of children.
How do I plant a Japanese holly hedge?
The Japanese holly prefers a sunny location, but can also tolerate partial shade. If it doesn't get enough light, it will go bald at the bottom or will not develop dense foliage. Neither of these things necessarily look good in a hedge.
This holly also has some demands on soil quality. It should be slightly moist and preferably slightly sour. If the lime content is too high, the holly leaves turn yellow. Ilex cretana cannot tolerate waterlogging at all.
How do I care for my holly hedge?
The Japanese holly is one of the particularly thirsty plants and also has very sensitive roots. That's why it should be watered regularly before the soil dries out. You can shape your hedge with a pair of sharp secateurs (€32.00 on Amazon). But always only cut the twigs and shoots and do not cut the leaves. The cut leaf edges change color and this makes your hedge slightly unsightly.
Interesting facts about the Japanese holly:
- slow growing
- good for hedge planting
- Location sunny to partially shaded
- Soil slightly moist and slightly acidic
- water and fertilize regularly
- Avoid waterlogging
- easy to cut
- Caution: poisonous berries!
Tip
It is better not to plant the Japanese holly in a hedge at the edge of the property if small children often walk there, the berries of this plant are poisonous.
