Pollination Info for China Girl Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Mesog')

China Girl Holly is a female cultivar and requires a male cultivar of the same species for proper pollination and berry production. Suitable pollinators for China Girl include China Boy, Blue Prince, Blue Stallion, and Blue Maid hollies.

It is important to have a pollinator of the opposite sex within close proximity to the female plant to ensure successful pollination. The male plant should ideally be planted within 50 feet of the female plant.

Pollination occurs when pollen is transferred from the male plants' stamens to the female plant's pistil. This can happen through wind or pollinator activity such as bees, butterflies, and birds. However, hand-pollination may also be necessary in some cases.

It is also important to note that some male plants may produce little to no pollen, so it is best to choose a highly fertile and suitable male pollinator for the female plant.

China Girl Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Mesog') - FAQ

What is China Girl Holly?

China Girl Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Mesog') is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the holly family. It is a hybrid plant that was created by crossing two different holly species - Ilex rugosa and Ilex aquifolium.

What are the characteristics of China Girl Holly?

China Girl Holly is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 6-8 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide when fully matured. It has a dense and compact growth habit and dark, glossy green leaves that are slightly serrated and oval in shape. The plant produces small white flowers in spring which give way to bright red berries in fall. The berries are loved by birds and provide food and habitat for wildlife.

Where can I plant China Girl Holly?

China Girl Holly thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate salt spray, making it a good choice for coastal gardens. It can also be grown in containers and makes an excellent hedge or border plant.

What are the care requirements for China Girl Holly?

China Girl Holly is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established. It should be watered regularly during the first year of planting to help it establish a robust root system. After that, it can tolerate periods of drought. The plant should be fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and pruned in late winter to early spring before new growth appears to maintain its shape and size.

Is China Girl Holly deer resistant?

Yes, China Girl Holly is deer resistant. The plant has spiny leaves that are unpalatable to deer and other pests, making it a good choice for landscapes that are prone to deer browsing.

What are some common problems with China Girl Holly?

China Girl Holly is a tough and durable plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. Yellowing leaves may indicate a problem with nutrient deficiency or poor soil drainage. The plant may also be affected by spider mites, particularly in hot and dry weather. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Can I propagate China Girl Holly?

Yes, China Girl Holly can be propagated by taking softwood or hardwood cuttings in summer or fall. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil or a rooting medium until they develop a strong root system. The plant can also be propagated by layering or by dividing the root ball in early spring.

Planting China Girl Holly (Ilex x meserveae 'Mesog')

China Girl Holly is a medium-sized evergreen shrub that requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. The soil should be well-drained, acidic, and rich in organic matter. Before planting, dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.

1. Remove the plant from the container and gently loosen the roots.
2. Place the plant in the center of the hole and backfill with soil, firming it down gently.
3. Water the plant well and add a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
4. Space multiple plants 3-4 feet apart.

Caring for China Girl Holly

To keep your China Girl Holly healthy and thriving:

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep and extensive root system.
• After establishment, water deeply only when the soil is dry to the touch.
• Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant.
• Protect from deer, which are known to eat holly leaves.

With good care, your China Girl Holly will provide year-round beauty to your garden with its glossy green leaves and vibrant red berries.