How to Trim Inkberry Bushes

Inkberry (Ilex glabra) is a type of holly favored for its round shape and its ability to tolerate wet soils. Sometimes confused with boxwood because of its global form and glossy, oval leaves, it is often used as a foundation and hedging plant. Inkberry often loses the leaves on its lower half, becoming leggy. Trimming inkberry to restore its shape is an easy garden chore.

Hand-held pruning shears
Hedge trimmers (power or manual)

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the branches of your inkberry back by one-third to one-half. If the stems are thin, you can use hedge trimmers. Thicker branches will need to be cut with hand-held pruners. Trim the branches so the bush has a round shape.
- 2
  Cut out all diseased branches and those that cross each other. If the branches are crowded, cut back one-third of the remaining branches to the ground. This pruning provides room for bushy growth of new stems and foliage.
- 3
  Rake up and remove all fallen branches and leaves. Plant debris left on the ground beneath plants can harbor disease and insect pests. Bag diseased cuttings and set them out for collection. Healthy debris can be shredded and placed on the compost pile.

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