Ilex crenata 'Dark Green'® 35 CM BALL

Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' 35 CM BALL Care Guide

Ilex crenata 'Dark Green,' commonly known as Japanese Holly, is a versatile and attractive shrub that adds elegance and structure to any garden. Its dense, glossy foliage and compact growth habit make it an ideal choice for formal hedges, topiary, and decorative garden features. This guide provides comprehensive care instructions for maintaining a healthy and beautiful Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' 35 CM BALL.

Overview of Ilex crenata 'Dark Green'

Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' is celebrated for its rich, dark green leaves and rounded growth habit. This evergreen shrub maintains its color throughout the year, providing year-round interest and a touch of classic charm to your garden landscape.

Key Features:

• Type: Evergreen shrub
• Leaf Color: Dark green, glossy
• Form: Rounded ball shape
• Height: Approximately 35 cm (14 inches)
• Spread: Approximately 35 cm (14 inches)

Planting Ilex crenata 'Dark Green'

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' performs well in both full sun and partial shade. For the best results, provide it with at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day. In very hot climates, partial shade can help prevent leaf scorch.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Amend heavy or clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage. Avoid planting in areas where water tends to pool.

Planting Instructions

1. Timing: Plant Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' in spring or autumn, which are the optimal times for establishing new plants. Avoid planting during the hottest summer months or when the ground is frozen.
2. Spacing: Space plants approximately 35 cm (14 inches) apart if using them in a hedge or group planting to allow for their natural spread and to ensure good air circulation.
3. Preparation: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Mix the excavated soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enrich it.
4. Planting: Position the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Fill in around the root ball with the prepared soil, firming it gently. Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
5. Watering: Water the plant deeply after planting. Keep the soil consistently moist during the first growing season to help establish strong roots. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering during extended dry periods.

Maintenance and Care

Watering

• Frequency: Water regularly to maintain soil moisture, especially during dry spells. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely. However, do not overwater as this can lead to root rot.
• Method: Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

• Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreen shrubs. Organic options such as compost or well-rotted manure are also beneficial.
• Schedule: Apply fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins and again in mid-summer if needed. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

Pruning

• Timing: Prune Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. This will help shape the plant and maintain its rounded form.
• Technique: Lightly trim the plant to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. For formal hedges or topiary, regular shaping may be necessary to keep the desired form.
• Tools: Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make clean cuts and minimize damage to the plant.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' is relatively pest-resistant but may occasionally attract scale insects or aphids. Treat infestations with appropriate insecticides or insecticidal soap.
• Diseases: The plant is generally disease-resistant but can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues.

Height and Spread

• Height: Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' grows to a height of approximately 35 cm (14 inches), making it a suitable choice for low hedges, edging, or decorative balls.
• Spread: The plant has a similar spread of approximately 35 cm (14 inches), maintaining a compact and rounded shape that fits well in various garden settings.

Seasonal Care Tips

Spring and Summer

• Growth: In spring, new growth will begin, and the plant will benefit from a balanced fertilizer application to support robust development.
• Maintenance: Regularly check for pests and diseases. Water as needed during hot, dry spells to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Autumn and Winter

• Preparation: In autumn, consider applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture and provide winter protection.
• Protection: Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' is generally hardy but can benefit from a layer of mulch in colder climates to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

Conclusion

Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' 35 CM BALL is a beautiful and versatile shrub that enhances any garden with its elegant, rounded form and dark green foliage. By following these care guidelines, you can ensure a thriving, healthy plant that provides year-round interest and structure to your garden. Enjoy the timeless beauty of Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' as it adds a touch of sophistication and charm to your outdoor space

• Size
  35 CM BALL C10

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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