holly

Dense, bushy evergreen and deciduous shrubs with dark green to blue-green glossy foliage where the evergreen types typically grow spines on their leaves. The female plants produce colorful persistent berries for the winter as long as a compatible male variety is nearby. A superb choice for specimen and foundation planting that have good deer resistance.

Plant in well-drained, amended soil. Water well after planting; maintain 1” of water once a week the first year. Little pruning needed; shapes itself nicely. Remove dead branches trunk suckers or shear any time. When necessary, prune in spring to early summer. Fertilize in early spring, mid-summer and fall with an acidic fertilizer. Follow label instructions. Mulch 2″ to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect against extremes of soil temperature. Wrap in burlap or spray with Wilt-stop to protect from winter desiccation.