Ilex mix 40CM STEM

Planting Ilex Mix 40 cm Stem

• About the plant

  • Compact evergreen hollies trained on a clear 40 cm stem, usually with a neat ball or cone of foliage on top.

  • Ideal for entrances, patios, balconies and formal garden layouts, often used in matching pairs.

• Choosing the right position

  • Plant in full sun to partial shade; bright light encourages dense growth and rich foliage colour.

  • Choose a sheltered spot protected from harsh, drying winds.

  • Suitable for growing in large containers or planting directly into beds and borders.

• Soil and compost

  • Prefers moist but well-drained soil; avoid areas that become waterlogged.

  • Tolerates a range of soil types from light to moderately heavy, provided drainage is good.

  • For containers, use a high-quality peat-free shrub or tree compost with some added grit or perlite for drainage.

• Planting in the ground

  • Dig a hole twice the width of the rootball and about the same depth.

  • Loosen the base and sides of the hole to make it easier for roots to spread.

  • Position the plant so the top of the rootball is level with the surrounding soil.

  • Backfill with a mix of soil and compost, firm gently and water thoroughly.

  • Add a light mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the stem to avoid rot.

• Planting in containers

  • Choose a sturdy pot at least 30–35 cm wide with good drainage holes.

  • Place crocks or stones at the base to improve drainage and stability.

  • Set the rootball so the soil level sits just below the rim of the pot, then fill around with compost.

  • Firm gently to remove air pockets and water in well, allowing excess water to drain freely.

Everyday Care, Watering and Feeding

• Watering

  • Keep compost or soil evenly moist, especially through the first growing season.

  • In the ground, water regularly in dry spells until well established, then only during prolonged drought.

  • Container plants dry out faster; check moisture frequently and water when the top few centimetres of compost feel dry.

  • Avoid letting pots sit in water for long periods, as this can cause root problems.

• Feeding

  • In spring, apply a slow-release, balanced fertiliser around the root zone.

  • Container-grown plants benefit from a light liquid feed every 4–6 weeks from late spring to midsummer.

  • Avoid overfeeding, particularly late in the season, as this can encourage soft, frost-prone growth.

• Pruning and shaping

  • Trim once or twice a year to maintain a neat ball or cone on the 40 cm stem.

  • Best times are late spring and late summer, taking only the soft outer growth.

  • Use clean, sharp shears and follow the existing shape, working gradually for an even finish.

  • Remove any shoots that appear on the clear stem or from the base, as these spoil the standard form.

• Supporting the stem

  • Ensure the main stem is supported with a cane or slim stake, especially in exposed spots or large pots.

  • Tie with soft ties, checking regularly so they do not cut into the bark as the plant grows.

Seasonal Care, Problems and Styling Tips

• Winter care

  • Hollies are generally hardy, but roots in containers are more vulnerable to freezing.

  • In very cold weather, move pots to a sheltered position, group them together, or wrap containers with fleece or insulating material.

  • Raise pots on feet to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging in wet winters.

• Pests and problems

  • Check for scale insects or aphids on stems and leaves; wipe off or treat promptly if found.

  • Yellowing foliage can be a sign of poor drainage, nutrient deficiency or unsuitable soil pH; improve drainage and feed in spring if needed.

  • Remove any dead, damaged or diseased shoots as soon as noticed, cutting back to healthy wood.

• Long-term maintenance

  • Refresh the top layer of compost in pots each spring, replacing the top few centimetres with fresh mix.

  • Repot every two to three years into slightly larger containers, or trim roots lightly and replant in the same pot with new compost.

  • Maintain a clear, weed-free area around the base in the ground so the elegant stem remains visible.

• Design and placement ideas

  • Use as matching pairs to frame doorways, paths or steps for a formal, welcoming effect.

  • Combine with low underplanting in containers, such as seasonal bedding or trailing ivy, to soften the base.

  • Position near seating areas or entrances where the evergreen structure can be appreciated all year round

• Size
  40 CM STEM C4, colour pot

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.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

Click here for more information about our shipping conditions.

You can pay your online order either by credit card or via Paypal.
If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.