Transplanting A Holly Tree

Transplanting a holly tree

A: Hollies transplant reasonably well, but like moving any tree or shrub, success depends on several factors: 1.) The younger the better. Smaller plants move better.

How easy is it to transplant a holly tree?

Holly shrubs have rather shallow root systems, so you do not have to dig deeply to reach the bottom of the root ball. Once the holly shrub is dug out, quickly move the shrub to its new location. Place the holly into its new spot and spread the roots out in the hole. Then backfill the hole with soil.

How deep are holly tree roots?

Holly tree roots grow very deep into the dirt. To be specific, the roots can grow about seventeen to twenty-five inches underneath the dirt. This is pretty far into the ground when you think about it. If you look at the type of root system the holly plant has, it is no wonder the tree roots are so deep.

How do you uproot a holly tree?

Loosen the stump as you dig to at least several inches in depth. Rock the stump back and forth and start digging under the base to separate it from the ground. If it proves difficult, use the leverage bar to pry it free. Eventually, it'll break free, and you can pull it out.

Can I transplant a holly tree in fall?

You may want to move the Holly for any number of reasons you might find that it's too close to a

Will a holly tree grow back if you cut it down?

Hollies are very tolerant of pruning, a characteristic that makes them good candidates for topiaries. And theoretically, most will recover from a hard cutback at almost any time of year. But recovery of a particular limb that's important for the look of the plant isn't guaranteed.

How long does it take holly tree to establish?

Plant Type:	Ornamental evergreen shrub or tree	White/bright or dark green (red, sometimes yellow/orange berries)
Exposure:	Full sun to part shade	3.5-6.5
Time to Maturity:	5-10 years	Well-draining
Spacing:	10-20 feet	Low
Planting Depth:	Depth of root ball	Birds, squirrels, other small mammals

What is the life span of a holly tree?

The Holly plant does grow pretty slow, but can eventually attain a height of around 30-50 feet in a compact pyramid shape. If planted in the right conditions and decently cared for some hollies can live up to 100 years or longer.

Can you cut off the top of a holly tree?

ANSWER: It's better not to remove the top of a tree. Cutting off the central leader encourages branching that produces an abnormally shaped tree. The upper branches of a tree may be several feet apart.

Do holly trees need a lot of water?

Caring for your holly bush: Water daily for the first week after you plant your holly bush, then twice a week afterward until they are established. After that, the bush should receive at least 2 inches of water per week.

How do you move a tree without killing it?

In fact, you should do absolutely everything you can to keep the root ball together. To do that, make sure you have a large piece of burlap on hand when you're about to lift the tree. Gently roll the root ball onto the burlap, tie it up, and carefully transport the tree.

Where do holly trees like to be planted?

Most hollies prefer a site that receives full sun, or is lightly shaded. They need a moist, but well-drained soil, enriched with lots of organic matter. They will grow in most soils types, but don't like gardens on solid chalk.

Can you transplant large holly bushes?

Determine the holly's new planting location according to the specific shrub's needs. For American holly, select a spot with at least partial sun and fertile, well-drained, acidic soil. Work the soil to a depth of 1 to 2 feet in early spring, the best time to plant or transplant holly.

Do holly trees have invasive roots?

Normally they cause no harm when planted 5 or more feet from foundations. If you become concerned, periodically run the blade of a flat-bladed spade down into the ground along the side of the house to sever the tree roots. Make the cuts straight down about a foot deep into the ground.

Is it better to transplant trees in the spring or fall?

The best time of the year to transplant trees and plants is autumn. This is because of cool temperatures and warm moist soil. Plants also require less energy as they begin to enter the early stages of dormancy. They are no longer focusing on above ground growth.

How late in the fall can you transplant a tree?

A typical fall question that many homeowners ask us is, “When is it too late to plant a tree?” The average rule of thumb is that fall plantings do best when they're in the ground and starting to root no later than 6 weeks before the ground freezes.

When should holly be cut back?

The consensus is that late spring, around April, is the best time, as the plant is most receptive to pruning, and the outdoor conditions are conducive to the job. What is this? Pruning too late in the year can increase the risk of new shoots being young when the first frosts hit, leading to stunted ongoing growth.

How do you speed up holly growth?

During the leaf production period of their life cycle, you can greatly increase the foliage output by putting a bucket (1-2 gallons) of water at the base of each tree everyday in May/June. This daily watering will enable the Hollies to produce 100's of additional new leaves.

What is the difference between English holly and American holly?

English holly (I. aquifolium) — This species is smaller than the American holly, topping out at around 35 feet. It has glossy, spiny leaves as opposed to the larger, duller, non-glossy foliage of the American holly. The leaves on both species have very sharp thorn-like spines on their margins.

Do you need two holly trees?

With evergreen holly, you will generally need 1 male for every 20 female hollies. These hollies can be up to 500 feet apart – although 300 to 400 feet is typically recommended. Winterberry (deciduous) holly need to be closer than evergreen holly. You'll want to plant 1 male for every 5 to 10 females.