Holly - Fertilization

Fertilization guarantees happy, healthy hollies.

During the first three to four years after planting, close attention should be given to fertilization to keep the plant attractively growing with healthy foliage and stems. After that, it is not quite as essential—just enough fertilizer to keep the plants healthy and green.

Hollies are much more attractive in foliage and fruit if they are correctly fertilized. The rate of application of fertilizer is determined by the plant height and the analysis of fertilizer.

Fertilizing plants…

Generally, most balanced fertilizer such as 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 analysis are satisfactory for hollies. If used at the rate of one tablespoon per foot of height of the plant. For instance, a 3 foot plant will need three tablespoons. This amount should be applied in March, May, and July by uniformly spreading or sprinkling it over the soil or mulch surface throughout the area underneath the branches of the shrub. It will not be necessary to remove the mulch.

Non-burning fertilizers…

However, for safety and quicker effects, thoroughly water the fertilizer down into the mulch and soil. Exceptionally good foliage color will result if a fertilizer containing a urea formaldehyde nitrogen source is used. These are often sold as non-burning fertilizers. Read the manufacturers directions and follow them for amount and frequency of application.

During the first three to four years after planting, close attention should be given to fertilization to keep the plant attractively growing with healthy foliage and stems. After that, it is not quite as essential—just enough fertilizer to keep the plants healthy and green.

For more on fertilizing hollies, contact your local County Extension Office.