How to Grow Inkberry Holly

Inkberry holly (Ilex glabra) is a tough, broadleaved evergreen with dark blue to black berries that does not at all resemble its Christmas time cousins. The narrow dark green leaves have only a few "teeth" on the tip and the plant has a mounded shape. Take a break from the ever popular yews. Plant some Inkberry holly and you'll wonder what you ever did without this cold hardy evergreen.

Inkberry holly
Water
Shovel
Mulch

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare your planting site, removing any weeds or unwanted plant material. Plant your holly in spring or late fall in a moist, well drained, acidic soil. Holly grows well in full sun and partial shade locations. The shrub will grow thicker in a sunny planting site.
- 2
  Dig your planting hole at least four times the width of the holly's root ball. The hole should be at a depth equal to that of the container so the root ball is level with the ground. Slope the sides of the hole outward from the bottom.
- 3
  Remove any materials that might hinder the plant's growth. Burlap should be cut away from the root ball and any twine or tape on the trunk removed.
- 4
  Place the holly in the planting hole and fill the hole with water.
- 5
  Backfill the original soil into the planting hole and water again.
- 6
  Spread a layer of mulch two to four inches deep around the entire planting site. Mulch is key to preventing weeds and retaining moisture.

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