Make sure the roots of Ilex aquifolium 'J.C. van Tol' are well drenched - stand the plant in a bucket of lukewarm water overnight. Choose a sunny spot where the Holly will have room to grow. Prepare a wide hole and loosen the soil with a fork. Stand the Holly bush in the hole at the correct depth - the top of the root ball should be just under ground level. Refill the hole and press firmly down. Water immediately after planting. This Holly will thrive in any soil really but do improve poor garden soil with compost and some fertiliser pellets. Protect the young bush from the worst of the winter weather. Once fully established, Ilex aquifolium 'J.C. van Tol' is absolutely hardy.

Holly (Ilex aquifolium 'J.C. van Tol') requires little or no maintenance and grows anywhere in moist but well-drained soil. Prefers a sunny spot. Do protect young bush from harsh winds.

Pruning

This Holly (Ilex aquifolium 'J.C. van Tol') is very tolerant to pruning but do not use a hedge trimmer. Pruning shears are preferable if you want to avoid half leaves hanging on the hedge for years on end (Holly leaves will hang on for 5 years, even if cut through).
Stand alone Holly only needs to be pruned if really necessary.

The Ilex genus has its own personal holly family (Aquifoliaceae). Ilex aquifolium 'J.C. van Tol' is an evergreen shrub with shiny, leathery leaves. The leaves on this variety are less prickly than others and it is self-pollinating! A male holly in the neighbourhood is therefore not required to get any holly berries. Just when other plants and trees are preparing for winter dormancy, Hollies produce their lovely bright red berries! A colourful and welcome addition to the winter garden. Birds enjoy the berries more than you know but beware, they are actually poisonous to humans - keep children safe!