How to Plant Chinese Holly Seeds? Detailed Planting Methods and Steps

Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the genus Ilex of the family Aquifoliaceae. It is an excellent foliage and fruit ornamental tree species, with uniquely shaped leaves, and red fruits hanging all over the branches after autumn. The fruits contain seeds, which can be planted. So, how to plant Chinese holly seeds?

1. Soil

Chinese holly grows at an altitude of 150-1900 m in thickets on slopes and hills, in open forests, as well as near roadsides, streamsides and village houses. It prefers fertile acidic soil and is not tolerant of saline-alkaline conditions. The soil should preferably be loose, fertile, well-aerated and well-drained acidic soil.

2. Sowing

In October, collect ripe Chinese holly seeds and store them under moist, low-temperature conditions, then sow them again in March-April of the following year. Scatter the Chinese holly seeds over the soil, cover with a thin layer of soil after sowing, and water to moisten the soil, then cover with plastic film to keep warm and retain moisture. The seeds will germinate in about 20 days.

3. Management

1. Temperature: Chinese holly likes a warm environment and is relatively cold-tolerant, able to withstand a brief low temperature of -5°C. The suitable growing temperature is 15-20°C. Above 35°C it will gradually stop growing, and below 5°C it will suffer cold damage. Normally it should be kept in a warm place for care. If the temperature is above 35°C, cool it down appropriately; if the temperature is below 5°C, keep it warm.

2. Light: Chinese holly likes sunlight and can also tolerate shade, and is suitable for growing in a shady, moist environment. In summer, keep it under a shade shed or in tree shade. In spring and autumn, place it in a semi-shaded spot to receive 4 hours of diffused light. In winter, keep it indoors.

3. Watering: Chinese holly likes a moist environment and is also drought-tolerant, but fears waterlogging. Water only when the soil is dry, and water thoroughly when you do. In spring and autumn, water once every 1-3 days. In summer, water once a day and frequently spray water on the leaves. In winter, watering once a week is sufficient.

4. Fertilizing: During the growing period of Chinese holly, apply timely topdressing to ensure sufficient nutrients. Generally, in spring apply a dilute cake fertilizer solution once every 2 weeks, in autumn apply topdressing once a month, do not fertilize in summer, and apply fertilizer once in winter.