Pollination information for Honey Maid Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Honey Maid')

Honey Maid Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Honey Maid') is a female cultivar and requires a male pollinator to produce berries. The optimal male pollinators for Honey Maid Holly are Blue Prince Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Blue Prince') or Blue Stallion Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Blue Stallion').

It is important to note that the male pollinator must be located within a 50-100 foot radius of the female plant for successful pollination to occur. Honey Maid Holly blooms in the spring, typically between April and May, and the berries ripen in the fall, usually between September and October.

Pollinators for Honey Maid Holly can be planted separately or as a group with the female plant for optimal pollination. It is recommended to plant at least one male pollinator for every five female plants.

In summary, to ensure successful pollination and berry production for Honey Maid Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Honey Maid'):

• Plant a male pollinator within a 50-100 foot radius of the female plant
• Choose the optimal male pollinators: Blue Prince Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Blue Prince') or Blue Stallion Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Blue Stallion')
• Plant at least one male pollinator for every five female plants

Honey Maid Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Honey Maid') FAQ

General Information

• What is Honey Maid Holly?
• Honey Maid Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Honey Maid') is a compact, evergreen shrub that has a dense, rounded form and glossy, dark green leaves with a serrated margin. The plant produces small, white flowers in late spring and early summer and bright red berries in the fall.
• What is the size and shape of Honey Maid Holly?
• Honey Maid Holly typically grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet and a width of 4 to 5 feet. It has a dense, rounded form.

Care and Maintenance

• What are the growing requirements for Honey Maid Holly?
• Honey Maid Holly prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained, acidic soil. The plant is generally low-maintenance, requiring little pruning or other care.
• What are some tips for caring for Honey Maid Holly?
• To promote healthy growth, water the plant deeply and regularly during its first few years. Once established, Honey Maid Holly can tolerate drought. Fertilize the plant in early spring and prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.
• How do I propagate Honey Maid Holly?
• Honey Maid Holly can be propagated through softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Root the cuttings in a soilless mix and keep them well-watered until they are established.

Pests and Diseases

• What are some common pests and diseases that affect Honey Maid Holly?
• Honey Maid Holly is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, like all hollies, it may be susceptible to scale insects, mites, and leaf spot.
• How can I prevent pests and diseases from affecting my Honey Maid Holly?
• Preventative measures that can help keep pests and diseases at bay include providing proper growing conditions, such as well-drained soil and adequate water, and maintaining good air circulation around the plant. If you notice signs of an infestation or disease, treat it promptly with an appropriate organic or chemical control.

Planting Honey Maid Holly

• Select a planting location with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade
• Dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the plant
• Remove the plant from its container and gently loosen any tangled roots
• Position the plant in the hole and backfill the hole with soil
• Water thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure the plant is well-watered
• Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and control weeds

Caring for Honey Maid Holly

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system
• After the first year, water regularly during dry spells and periods of drought
• Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any damaged or diseased branches
• Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering
• Protect the plant from harsh winter winds by wrapping it in burlap or a similar protective material
• Monitor for pests and diseases and take appropriate action if necessary