Holly- Planting Procedures

Follow these simple instructions for planting hollies

The best transplanting season occurs from October through February, particularly with balled and burlapped plants. Container grown hollies may be planted at any time of year that the soil may be worked and the plants watered.

Hollies, like any other shrub or tree that you might plant, will grow and develop more attractively if correctly planted. The best transplanting season occurs from October through February, particularly with balled and burlapped plants. Container grown hollies may be planted at any time of year that the soil may be worked and the plants watered.

Soil preferences…

Hollies grow in a wide range of soils throughout Georgia. A loose, loamy soil is preferred. Tight, compact, clay soils and excessively sandy soils should be avoided where possible. However, these same soils may be changed to grow hollies.

Planting procedures…

Planting holes should be 2 feet wide for shrubs and 3 feet for tree forms. Always handle the plant by the root ball, not the stem. Set it into the hole so that it will be no deeper than it grew in the nursery. Remove any string or rope that is used to tie the root ball. Carefully unfold the burlap and fold it down around the sides of the ball.

Use a bucket or hose to fill the hole 2 - 3 times with water. After it has settled, use enough soil to fill the hole. Use the excess soil to make a 4" - 5" rim or ring around the planting to channel water down into the root zone.

Use a 2 - 3 inch layer of any of the organic materials and mulch. Water your plant thoroughly once per week.

For more information on the planting procedures for holly, contact your local County Extension Office.