Planting and Caring for Sky Pencil Holly

Planting Basics

Unlike many other plants, hollies can grow and thrive all year long. However, like many other plants, they do need protection during times of deep frost. They do best when planted during the spring, and the weather should already be warm when planting takes place. Holly thrives in full sunlight, and slightly acidic soil is best in which to plant them. Adding mulch or compost will do wonders for the plant's growth. Mulch is also necessary in protecting the holly from frost during the winter.

Watering

Sky pencil holly should receive a moderate amount of watering, and regular rainfall should suffice. Make sure to water the plants weekly whenever your area is experiencing a drought. This will keep the holly adequately moist.

Fertilizing

Apply fertilizer to your holly during the spring and fall for its best health. Visit your local nursery or home goods store and inquire about fertilizers specifically made for holly plants. When mulch is spread, be sure to apply it in a circle that is as wide as the plant's branches.

Pollinating

You can easily distinguish the two sexes of sky pencil hollies by the berries. Only the female plants produce berries, and if you only have this gender of the plant, you will need a pollinator. A good rule of thumb is that you have at least one male holly plant for every 10 female holly plants.

Transplanting

If you are planning on moving your hollies, there are a few factors to consider beforehand. Sky pencil hollies, just like all hollies, don't take to transplanting. You will have to consider the size of your plant before choosing a location for the transplant. Also, always make sure the hollies you do transplant were originally bought at a nursery or greenery.

Propagation

Propagation is an option from both cuttings of the plant, as well as from seeds. However, doing it in the latter manner will be slightly tricky.

Pruning

Pruning is necessary to maintain the holly plant's shape and overall good health. Sky Pencil Holly does extremely well when pruned. Make sure not to prune entire holly branches because this can hinder future growth. The best time to prune your holly is during the winter holidays, when you can use it to decorate your Christmas tree, a wreath, or another item in your house. It will definitely spruce up your home and give an extra festive feel!

One Final Note

One thing anyone who is planning on growing sky pencil holly should know is that, like all other holly plants, these typically take around two to three years to bloom, and the berries take even longer. Patience is definitely a virtue when you are growing these types of plants!