- Methods of propagating Ilex crenata
- Propagate Ilex crenata from cuttings
- Propagation of Japanese holly by layering
- Sow Ilex crenata
Ilex crenata has blossomed into a popular hedge plant after boxwood is frequently attacked by diseases. The hardy Japanese holly, on the other hand, is resistant to most diseases. If you want to propagate the plant, cuttings are the best option.
The Ilex crenata is best propagated by cuttings
Methods of propagating Ilex crenata
There are three methods available for the propagation of Ilex crenata:
- cut cuttings
- Lower shoots
- sowing
Propagation from cuttings is the most common. Although rooting takes some time, you will get plants faster that you can move to the desired location.
Propagate Ilex crenata from cuttings
Cuttings are cut in July or August, as the bush is at its best then. Cut shoots from 7 to 15 cm long. Remove the lower leaves.
Prepare seed pots (€16.68) that you fill with a sand and peat mixture. Insert the cuttings and water the substrate.
Keep the seed pots moist but not too wet. Put them in a place that is sheltered from the wind and temperatures around 16 degrees.
Propagation of Japanese holly by layering
Ilex crenata outdoors can be propagated very well using sinkers. To do this, bend a shoot to the ground. Score it carefully. Cover it with soil so that the shoot tip is still sticking out of the ground. If necessary, weigh down the sinker with a stone or tent peg.
If new leaves form at the tip of the shoot, separate the young plant and plant it in the desired location.
Sow Ilex crenata
The berries that the female Japanese holly shrubs develop in autumn can also be used for propagation. To do this, simply stick the berries in the desired location in the ground. However, it takes more than a year to germinate.
Alternatively, you can shell the seeds and refrigerate for several weeks before sowing into prepared pots.
Caution: The berries are poisonous and must not get into the hands of children.
tips
Ilex is hardy. Ilex crenata, the Japanese species, on the other hand, needs good winter protection, especially in the first few years. You should always overwinter frost-free in the bucket grown Ilex.