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Buy Holly Mary Nell in Austin, Texas
Native to North America, the Holly Mary Nell (Ilex x ‘Mary Nell’) is a stunning evergreen with glossy, deep green foliage and bright red berries. Its compact and dense growth habit makes it an ideal choice for landscaping projects throughout Austin, Texas. As a full-service wholesale and retail plant nursery and landscape supplier with locations on Hwy 290 West and Pond Springs Rd in Austin, Leaf Landscape Supply is dedicated to providing high-quality plants and supplies to fulfill all your landscaping needs.
Planting Holly Mary Nell
Choosing the Right Location
Before planting Holly Mary Nell, it’s essential to select the right location. In Austin, Texas, the climate is generally hot and humid, with occasional freezes in the winter. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a planting site that receives partial to full sun exposure and is well-draining. The soil should be acidic and rich in organic matter to promote healthy growth. Consider the mature size of the Holly Mary Nell when choosing the location to ensure it has enough space to thrive without being overcrowded by other plants or structures.
Soil Preparation
To prepare the soil for planting, start by digging a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the plant. Mix in organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve soil texture, fertility, and drainage. Additionally, adding a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants can provide essential nutrients to support the initial establishment of the Holly Mary Nell.
Planting Process
Once the soil is prepared, carefully remove the Holly Mary Nell from its container and gently loosen the roots if they are tightly bound. Place the plant in the center of the hole, making sure that it sits at the same depth as it did in the container. Fill in the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant to remove air pockets. Water the newly planted Holly Mary Nell thoroughly to help settle the soil and hydrate the roots.
Caring for Holly Mary Nell
Watering
After planting, it’s crucial to establish a regular watering routine, especially during the dry and hot periods in Austin, Texas. Newly planted Holly Mary Nell should be watered deeply at least once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Once the plant is established, it still requires regular watering, particularly during periods of drought.
Mulching
Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as pine straw or shredded bark, around the base of the Holly Mary Nell can help retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature. In addition, mulch acts as a natural weed barrier, reducing competition for nutrients and water. When applying mulch, be sure to leave a few inches of space around the plant’s stem to prevent rot and disease.
Pruning
Regular pruning is essential to maintain the desired shape of the Holly Mary Nell and promote healthy growth. Ideally, pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and thin out the interior of the plant to improve air circulation and light penetration.
Fertilizing
In the early spring, before new growth begins, apply a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of berry production. If necessary, periodic applications of an acidifying fertilizer can help ensure the soil pH remains suitable for the Holly Mary Nell.
Closing considerations
The Holly Mary Nell is a versatile and visually striking addition to any landscape in Austin, Texas. With the right planting and care, this evergreen shrub can thrive in the local climate and provide year-round interest with its vibrant foliage and berries. At Leaf Landscape Supply, you can find the high-quality plants and supplies needed to bring the beauty of Holly Mary Nell to your landscaping projects in Austin.