Sunny Foster Holly Ilex × attenuata 'Sunny Foster' (f/v)

Water

Topiary Holly should be watered deeply to ensure the roots receive adequate moisture, typically amounting to about 1 inch of water weekly. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water twice a week. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation for efficient watering, making sure to moisten the soil up to 8 inches deep. Always check the soil moisture before watering; it should be moist but not waterlogged. In the winter, reduce the frequency of watering since the plant requires less moisture during its dormant period.

Light

Topiary Holly thrives in full sun to partial shade. It performs best with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day but can tolerate some light afternoon shade. Ensure the plant is placed in a spot that receives ample morning sun, which is less intense and helps prevent scorching of the leaves.

Temperature

Topiary Holly is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures; however, it prefers conditions between 50°F and 70°F for optimal growth. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F and maximum temperatures up to 90°F. Avoid placing it in areas where temperatures can drop below 20°F frequently, as this can cause damage to the plant.

Pruning

Topiary Holly should be pruned to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. The best time for pruning is in the late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Prune sparingly and selectively, cutting back any excessively long shoots or branches to keep the desired topiary form. Regular light pruning throughout the growing season can help maintain the shape.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Foster Holly should have good drainage yet retain moisture, with a blend of loamy soil, peat, and coarse sand or perlite. It prefers a slightly acidic pH of 5.0 to 6.0.

Repotting

Foster Holly typically doesn't need frequent repotting; it should be done every 2-3 years or when the root system outgrows the container.

Humidity & Misting

Foster Holly tolerates a wide range of humidity conditions but thrives best in moderate to high humidity levels, avoiding extremes.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Foster Holly in bright, indirect light and protect from drafts.

• Outdoor

  Plant Foster Holly in a sunny to partially shaded spot with shelter from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

Ilex × attenuata 'Sunny Foster', commonly known as "Sunny Foster" holly, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in moist, well-draining soil, typically in partial to full sun exposure. As a seedling, it slowly develops a root system and a stem before emerging with its initial set of leaves. During the juvenile stage, the plant grows rapidly and starts to form its characteristic glossy, green foliage and adopts a conical shape, becoming more drought and pest resistant as it matures. The transition to maturity occurs over several years, with the plant beginning to flower and produce fruit after it has established a robust root system and significant vegetative growth. The flowers, which are small and white, attract pollinators before giving way to bright red berries if a compatible male holly is nearby for pollination. With proper care, "Sunny Foster" holly can live for many years, with some specimens reaching decades, during which time it will continuously go through cycles of growth, flowering, and berry production.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Ilex × attenuata 'Sunny Foster', commonly known as the Sunny Foster Holly, is most effectively propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings. The ideal time for taking cuttings is during the late summer to early fall when new growth has begun to mature and harden slightly. To propagate, one cuts a length of semi-hardwood, typically 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, ensuring at least two to three sets of leaves are present. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cut end is dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is placed in a well-draining soil mix, with the cut end buried up to the first set of remaining leaves. Adequate moisture is maintained, and the cutting is kept in a warm environment with indirect light until roots have established, which generally takes several weeks.