1. Planting:  This holly thrives in various soil conditions, from sandy to clay, and adapts to moisture levels from moist to very dry. It flourishes in both full sun and partially shaded areas. Holly plants prefer loamy, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. The best time to plant holly is in spring or fall. When planting, dig a hole two to three times the size of the root ball, place the plant inside, and fill the hole with soil. Add a 2 to 3-inch layer of organic mulch over the roots. For multiple holly plants, allow about 5 feet of space between them for small varieties or if you plan to grow a hedge.

2. Watering: Holly bushes need consistently moist soil during their first year and moderately moist soil afterward. If rainfall is low, consider supplementary watering. Adding mulch around the base helps retain moisture.

3. Fertilizing: Feed your holly plants once a year with a slow-release fertilizer for an acid-loving shrub. Use a fertilizer designed for evergreen or acid-loving plants in spring and fall (like our Holly-Tone Fertilizer) to keep them at their best.  

4. Pruning: This plant requires minimal pruning to maintain a conical shape, and late spring is the ideal time.