How to Care for Holly Bushes
- 1). Monitor the water needs of your holly bushes. Holly bushes do not need extra watering, except in unusually dry conditions. Do not over-water. If the soil is soggy, you have watered too much.
- 2). Prune bushes yearly to keep them in check. When to prune the bush depends on the the type of holly, but December is a good time for most holly bushes. The bushes are dormant at that time. Remove all dead and diseased branches. Start pruning inside the bush and work your way out. Do not try to shape the holly bush, just follow the natural growth. Trim branches at their bases or just above a new leaf growth.
- 3). Avoid disease and pests. Inspect holly bushes often for diseased branches, and immediately prune them out. Keep pruned diseased branches away from the bush. If you notice pests such as spider mites, try hand-picking them off the leaves. Spray with soapy water or insecticide to prevent further infestation.