The hardy holly is quite easy to care for, like basically all plants that grow wild in this country. However, this only applies if the location is carefully chosen and tailored to the needs of the plant.
How should you fertilize a holly tree?
Regular fertilization is not necessary for holly in the garden bed if the soil is nutrient-rich. Potted plants and bonsais should be fertilized regularly. When planting and transplanting, some compost can be added to the planting hole. Pay attention to low-lime fertilizer.
The holly in the garden bed
In the garden bed with nutrient-rich soil, the holly does not actually need any regular fertilization. However, you can safely add some well-ripened compost to the plant when planting and in the spring. Also, when you transplant your holly, add some compost to the planting hole. However, keep in mind that an older holly does not tolerate transplanting particularly well.
The holly in the pot
The holly is also suitable as a container plant. Choose a plant pot that is as high as possible so that your holly's roots have enough space. Create a drainage layer because the Ilex cannot tolerate waterlogging. The holly can be fertilized occasionally in the pot, as the soil there leaches out more quickly. Remember that the Ilex in the pot needs winter protection.
The holly as a bonsai
The Japanese holly is particularly suitable as a bonsai. This is due to their compact growth and small leaves. This creates a Hatmonian overall picture.
Water the holly properly
The holly needs a lot of moisture, but cannot tolerate waterlogging. The soil should be slightly moist, but not really wet. Water your holly before the soil dries out properly. An important sign of water shortage is the browning of the leaves.
The leaves usually change color in late winter or spring, especially if the winter had many sunny days. Then more moisture evaporates through the leaves of your holly than the plant can pull out of the ground through its roots.
The most important things in brief:
- regular fertilization not necessary in nutrient-rich soil
- Fertilize potted plants and bonsai regularly
- add some compost to the planting hole when planting and transplanting
- pay attention to low-lime fertilizer
Tip
Excessive fertilization can be just as damaging as fertilizing too infrequently, so be sure to check how suitable the soil is for your holly.