Ilex or holly can be found as a hedge plant in many gardens. It is often planted as a substitute for boxwood because it is less susceptible to disease. Ilex makes few demands on the soil. How to plant Ilex in the garden or tub.

The holly likes it sunny

Which location is suitable for Ilex?

  • Sunny locations
  • penumbra
  • little draft
  • no direct shadow

There must be enough light in partially shaded locations, otherwise the Ilex will take care of itself and become less dense.

What should the substrate be like?

The substrate must be well drained, as Ilex does not tolerate waterlogging. The earth does not need to be too nutritious. Lime does not tolerate holly well, so pay attention to the pH of the soil.

When is the best planting time?

Ilex is best planted in spring. Then the roots have enough time to develop well. They survive light frosts later better.

What planting distance must be observed?

If kept as a single shrub, you should give the Ilex enough space. A planting distance of two meters is ideal. In the hedge, the distance should be 30 to 40 cm.

How do you plant Ilex correctly?

Dig a planting hole about twice the size of the root ball. When planting as a hedge, it is better to dig a planting ditch, as you can correct the location of the Ilex later.

Mix the plant substrate with mature compost and horn shavings.(32.93€)

Insert the Ilex in such a way that the roots do not snap off. Dump the soil and gently tamp down. Then mulch the area. Then you have to water less.

How is Ilex propagated?

The easiest way to propagate is to use sinkers. To do this, bend branches down so that they lie on the ground. Score the branch slightly and then cover it with soil. However, it takes some time for roots to form.

The Ilex needs even longer to reproduce if you pull it from the seeds in the berries or via cuttings.

When does Ilex bloom?

The flowering period is in May and June. Most Ilex species are detached.

When do the fruits ripen?

The fruits are ripe in autumn and usually stay on the bush over the winter.

Is Ilex hardy?

Native Ilex is hardy. Only in the first few years should you cover the young plants in winter.

Ilex crenata, the Japanese holly, is only partially hardy and needs appropriate winter protection.

How poisonous is ilex?

The leaves and berries are poisonous. The berries' poison decomposes if the fruit is heated for a longer period of time. Raw berries can cause serious poisoning.

tips

Ilex is also called winter berry because the berries remain on the bush in winter. As a decorative Christmas decoration, the branches with the fruit are cut on frost-free days.

Category:

Herbs