Mature Holly Tree

Brendankearns · Rank attained: Rowan Tree Joined: 01 Feb 2013 Posts: 133

Hi, I have a mature Holly tree about 15 years old which it moved to my new house. Due to its size I had to remove a lot of the lower branches to put it in the trailer, the tree is doing well now but obviously doesn't look great with the removal of the lower branches. Is it possible to encourage new lower branches? If so how?

Thanks

Greengage · Posted: Thu Oct 10, 2013 9:42 pm Post subject:

tippben · Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 12:54 am Post subject:

The tree will always grow from the tips of any branches. Once it has reestablished a root system (3=5 years), you COULD cut it down, coppicing or pollarding it. That would stimulate lower growth. Given the age of the tree, and the recent drastic action, it could also kill it. As Greengage says, I'd count your blessings that it survived and enjoy it as it is.

Sive · Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 7:17 am Post subject:

How about planting a suitable evergreen shrub in front of the holly, that will camouflage the bare trunk......?

Brendankearns · Rank attained: Rowan Tree Joined: 01 Feb 2013 Posts: 133

Good feedback, thanks all

Greengage · Posted: Fri Oct 11, 2013 1:17 pm Post subject:

Ok I was being smart saying NO just to see the reaction.
A lot will depend on when you moved it and how you went about preparing it for the move, It is an evegreen tree 15 years old, to move something this old you would need to have prepared it for the previous two years by under cutting and encouraging fiberous roots to grow these will help feed it in its new location.
It should also have being lifted in Late spring for an evergreen tree with a very substantial rootballl. Now you didnt say when you moved it and replanted it, It will survive on its reserves for a while but dont be suprised if you get up some morning and its dead, it needs constant watering and also may need to be staked to stop it rocking in the wind until it puts down anchor roots to stabilise itself, For a 15 year old evergreen tree if it survives well done you should have a place at the top of the class. Let us know how it gets on even in a years time, there is nothing to feel bad about if it fails and a lot too be chuffed about if it succeeds, Any chance of a pic.

Brendankearns · Rank attained: Rowan Tree Joined: 01 Feb 2013 Posts: 133

Well a year and a bit later and the Holly is still alive and kicking so I must take that gold star for top in class Wink

.

On a serious note, it is doing well, growing strong and baring berries. Zero growth in the lower part were I had to cut it back to the trunk - no surprise there as I was told by many it would never regrow from the base again. So it's now time to look for some suggestions on what evergreen I should grow at the base to help blend into the growth on the top. Tree is on a North East positionwhich can be windy. At the front of the house so need something tidy and not thorny/dangerous to children.

All suggestions welcomed.

We try now to post a pict of the Half nake Holly.

Thanks
Brendan

Brendankearns · Rank attained: Rowan Tree Joined: 01 Feb 2013 Posts: 133

Holly pic

Greengage · Posted: Sun Jan 18, 2015 8:41 pm Post subject:

mmm.......... I would not be confident but i could be wrong, first remove all the grass at its base with a dia 2 metres, weed and feed and water fingers crossed if possible remove dead wood as this will harbour disease, Do not climb this tree without something safe and secure to protect you, As for planting under it i would plant Pittispornum either green or variegated.