Gardeners Guide to Holly

Holly is the plant that holds the most cherished memory in our garden. Commemorating each anniversary, my husband and I celebrate our marriage with planting a holly. Throughout history, holly has held a mythical purpose for many people around the world. In Ireland, the Celts thought the holly leaves contained magical protection for homes against witches and lightning strikes while also providing residence for fairies; Romans believed the holly was created to resemble the crown of thorns that Jesus was forced to wear and therefore is a symbol of this during the Christmas season; and for me it is a symbol of longevity through the harshly cold months and the free going warmer months that resembles my marital bliss.

If not the historical significant, the holly treasured in America since it can be grown successfully in all fifty states - which is very uncommon among plants and trees alike. Minus Australia and Antarctica, over 400 species can be grown around the world in all sizes from a tree to a bush. Fitting in all sized gardens it ranges from 6 inches to seventy feet in height. Therefore it is versatile plant that is cherished by many gardeners around the world. Although there are many species, the most popular in America are the English Holly and the Winterberry Holly. More holly species can be seen on the link attached to this article.

Matching my marriage, this plant is old-fashioned and is considered "dioecious". "Dioecious" means that each plant has either female or male organs. Therefore, to have a fruit bearing plant, a male plant and a female plant need to be planted at least 30 to 40 inches from each other. Each plant can be planted alone though; it will just not bear fruit - those lovely red berries that are treasured during the Christmas months. These plants prefer more acidic soil, therefore should be planted near a tree or forest area. If this landscape option is not available, lime can be added to the soil to grow the plants successfully. Be careful to pay special attention to the specific species to assure that the zoning is correct, not all species can be grown in all zones.

General care of the holly is required but is minimal. Watering the plant at least once a week, especially the hotter days of the summer will assure that the plant gets enough nourishment that is required to grow successfully. In addition, a once a year soil testing should be done to maintain the acidic level of around 6.0 that is needed. If the plant is more than a few years old, general pruning should take place to get the preferred plant shape. Sometimes limbs will get growth spurts and will require the needed trimming. Once the plant moved around from the desired shape, pruning can be done during dormant seasons close to the end of fall and winter months. Occasionally throughout the warmer months though, minimal trimming can be down without causing too much damage. When pruning, do not worry that the branches look bare, next season the plant will bloom more leaves and fill in the bare locations.

All in all, the holly is a wonderful plant that holds a deep historical background and can be planted all around America and most other countries. They are hardy bushes and are great for colder regions, adding color in those snowy months when no color is available. For specific species in your area, check with local gardening centers for more information.