Ilex aquifolium aka Holly
Taxonomy
Common names
Holly, English Holly, Common HollyHow to care for Holly
Difficulty
Holly requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Water
Holly should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Its needs are relatively simple, but one of the most important is making sure its soil is adequately moist. Without proper moisture, the plant can suffer from wilting and stunted growth. To ensure your Holly is healthy, you must choose a potting soil that retains moisture.
Look for a soil with good drainage to prevent root rot, but also make sure it contains plenty of organic matter. Coco coir and sphagnum moss are both excellent ingredients for retaining moisture and providing the #self.names with the nutrients it needs to thrive. If you can find a soil that has a combination of these ingredients, your #self.names will thank you with beautiful blooms.
Lighting
Holly requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Holly will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Holly to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Holly is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Fertilizer
The growth of Holly is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
Region of origin
Holly’s native range is Western and central Europe, including Britain, from Norway to Germany south to the Mediterranean.
More info:
Wikipedia