Ilex crenata, the Japanese holly, is a very undemanding plant that has proven itself very well as a hedge plant. It needs few nutrients. Therefore, frequent fertilization is not necessary. What do you have to consider when fertilizing Ilex crenata?
How should Ilex crenata be fertilized?
Ilex crenata (Japanese holly) requires little fertilizer. It is best to fertilize them in spring with mature compost or horn shavings. Avoid over-fertilization and chemical fertilizers. A layer of mulch can also improve the soil and provide nutrients.
When do you need to fertilize Ilex crenata?
If you properly prepare the soil or substrate in the pot before planting, you won't have to fertilize at all in the first few years.
The plant loves lime-free, slightly humus-rich soil. Enrich it with mature compost and horn shavings.
If you don't want to miss out on fertilizing, for example because the holly seems a bit stunted, add some compost in the spring.
The right fertilizer for the Japanese holly
Chemical fertilizers are not necessary. At best, you can administer a slow-release fertilizer in spring, but only in half the dose.
Mature compost, which you can easily work into the soil in spring, is better suited as fertilizer. Horn shavings (€32.00 on Amazon) are also a good fertilizer for Ilex crenata.
Never over-fertilize
Ilex crenata reacts sensitively to excessive nutrient content in the soil. Therefore, avoid over-fertilizing the plants.
Never fertilize on very hot summer days. The last fertilizer application should be at the end of July. Otherwise, the new shoots will no longer be able to mature properly before winter.
Apply mulch cover
The best thing you can do for your Ilex crenata is to apply a layer of mulch in the spring. It has many advantages:
- Looses the soil
- prevents water from evaporating
- releases nutrients
- protects against frost in winter
- prevents weeds from emerging
The mulching material regulates the soil's water balance well. As the material decomposes, it releases nutrients that penetrate the soil. This avoids over-fertilization.
The mulch cover also protects the Ilex crenata from frost damage in winter and prevents weeds from spreading under the bush.
Suitable mulching materials are:
- he althy foliage
- chopped lawn clippings (without seeds)
- Straw
- shredded garden waste
Tip
Ilex crenata can be propagated yourself if you have a little patience. The easiest way to propagate is via planters. But you can also cut cuttings in summer.
