Ep. 233 Deck the halls with holly: Growing and enjoying Ilex spp. | #GoodGrowing
Holly isn’t just a festive decoration; it’s a plant with a rich history that can be incorporated into almost any garden. Check out this week’s Good Growing Podcast, as we explore the fascinating world of holly (Ilex spp.), from its cultural significance in ancient traditions to its role in modern landscapes. Learn about different species, tips for planting and care, how to ensure those iconic red berries appear, and even some surprising uses for holly. Whether you’re decking the halls or planning your garden, this episode has everything you need to know about this holiday favorite.
Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ymwu5eIsyaw
Skip to what you want to know:
00:37 - Welcome, Ken. Talking holly this week.
01:47 – Holly mythology
05:10 - General growing conditions and care of holly
07:47 - Holly are dioecious, what does that mean? How does that affect pollination and fruit production?
13:21 – Pruning hollies
16:19 – Holly species (some)
17:28 - Ilex glabra – Inkberry
22:26 - Ilex crenata - Japanese holly
26:06 - Ilex decidua – Possumhaw
28:07 - Ilex verticilata – Winterberry
31:39 - Ilex x meserve - Blue holly
35:05 - Ilex aquifolium - English holly
36:58 - Ilex opaca - American holly
41:00 - Ilex cornuta - Chinese holly
42:56 – ‘Nellie Stevens’
45:59 – Ilex cornuta ‘Burford’
47:17 – Holly and wildlife
50:11 – Tea made from holly and a taste test
58:09 – Holly and deer and rabbits
59:06 - Wrap-up, what’s up next week, and goodbye!
Contact us!
Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu
Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu
Check out the Good Growing Blog: https://go.illinois.edu/goodgrowing
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Any products or companies mentioned during the podcast are in no way a promotion or endorsement of these products or companies.
Barnyard Bash: freesfx.co.uk
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Creators and Guests
Host
Chris Enroth
University of Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties
Host
Ken Johnson
University of Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator serving Calhoun, Cass, Greene, Morgan, and Scott Counties
