Ilex crenata is segregated. This means that the bushes are either male or female. Female hollies produce the poisonous fruits. That is why it is advisable for families with children to plant the purely male variety Ilex crenata Dark Green, which does not bear berries. The care is similar to that of other Ilex species.
How do you properly care for Ilex Crenata Dark Green?
To properly care for Ilex Crenata Dark Green, you should water regularly, avoid waterlogging, use rainwater, fertilize in spring, cut in early summer and protect young plants in winter. Spider mites and fungal infestations should be kept in mind.
How do you water Ilex crenata Dark Green correctly?
- Water regularly
- Avoid waterlogging
- use rainwater if possible
- Let the tap water stand beforehand
- create drainage in the bucket
Regular watering, preferably with rainwater, is advisable. Waterlogging must be avoided at all costs. But the roots must not dry out completely.
Do you need to fertilize the Japanese holly?
If you really want to fertilize, give the Ilex crenata Dark Green ripe compost or horn shavings (€32.00 at Amazon) as fertilizer in spring. But this is usually not necessary.
Avoid over-fertilization and only fertilize until the end of July. A mulch blanket that you place under the holly in spring is a good idea.
Is cutting necessary and possible?
All holly species tolerate pruning well. Cutting is not necessary, but the plant can easily be trimmed to shape. The best time for cutting is early summer.
When does it need to be repotted or transplanted?
You only have to repot when the Ilex crenata Dark Green no longer fits in the pot. If possible, you should not transplant the Japanese holly outdoors.
What diseases and pests should you watch out for?
In areas that are too moist, the roots can become infected with fungus. A foul smell occurs.
If the summer is very dry, the Ilex crenata Dark Green occasionally has to struggle with spider mites. Prevent this by misting the leaves more often.
How hardy is Ilex crenata Dark Green?
Like all Japanese holly species, Dark Green is conditionally hardy. The older the plant, the better it survives cold winters.
You should protect young plants outdoors from frost with a mulch cover and some fleece.
Don't forget to water the shrubs in very dry winters.
Tip
The flowering period of Ilex crenata Dark Green lasts from May to June. The flowers are rather inconspicuous.
