How to Care for English Holly Plants

Overview

English holly is a common holly tree that can grow up to 60 ft. high. White flowers bloom in the late spring amid shiny evergreen leaves edged with spines. In the late fall and into the winter, English holly develops bright red berries. English holly plants can last up to 150 years.

Step 1

Plant male and female English holly plants within 30 to 40 feet of each other. Holly plants are dioecious, which means a female and a male plant must be planted near each other or they will not bear fruit. A good ratio for English holly plants is one male plant for every five female plants.

Step 2

Prune back all the other trees and shrubs around the English holly to ensure that the plants receive plenty of sunlight. Holly plants will tolerate shade, but they will not produce very many berries and will become spindly.

Step 3

Water English holly plants on a regular schedule. Holly needs moist, well-draining soil. When the soil dries out during the summer and fall, soak the area around the roots.

Step 4

Fertilize English holly plants once in the spring and again in the fall. This will help maintain healthy plant growth throughout the growing season.

Step 5

Prune English holly back in December. This will help them keep their form as well as supply you with clippings to use for holiday decorations. English holly will grow bushier when pinched back.

Step 6

Mulch the holly plants with 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch. The best time to do this is right after fertilizing. The mulch will help keep the soil moist and will act as long-release fertilizer as it breaks down.