Holly isn’t just a festive decoration; it’s a plant with a rich history that can be incorporated into almost any garden. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast, as we explore the fascinating world of holly (Ilex spp.), from its cultural significance in ancient traditions to its role in modern landscapes. Learn about different species, tips for planting and care, how to ensure those iconic red berries appear, and even some surprising uses for holly. Whether you’re decking the halls or planning your garden, this episode has everything you need to know about this holiday favorite.

Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ymwu5eIsyaw

Skip to what you want to know:  

  00:37 - Welcome, Ken. Talking holly this week.

  01:47 – Holly mythology

  05:10 - General growing conditions and care of holly

  07:47 - Holly are dioecious, what does that mean? How does that affect pollination and fruit production?

  13:21 – Pruning hollies

  16:19 – Holly species (some)

    17:28 - Ilex glabra – Inkberry

    22:26 - Ilex crenata - Japanese holly

    26:06 - Ilex decidua – Possumhaw

    28:07 - Ilex verticilata – Winterberry

    31:39 - Ilex x meserve - Blue holly

    35:05 - Ilex aquifolium - English holly

    36:58 - Ilex opaca - American holly

    41:00 - Ilex cornuta - Chinese holly

      42:56 – ‘Nellie Stevens’

      45:59 – Ilex cornuta ‘Burford’

  47:17 – Holly and wildlife

  50:11 – Tea made from holly and a taste test

  58:09 – Holly and deer and rabbits

  59:06 - Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye!

 
Contact us! 

Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu

Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu

Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing

Subscribe to the weekly Good Growing email: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowingsubscribe

Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.

Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk

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