Heller's Holly Question

CamdenJim

Shohin
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I have a well-established Heller's Holly (ilex crenata 'Helleri') in my yard that is annoyingly placed and decidedly seedy looking. But it looks like a great possibility for potting up and working with as a bonsai.

Can I expect it to back bud much if I cut some of it back to old wood? Should I cut back only some of the greener limbs?

I'm not afraid to experiment with this one. It's annoying in its place now, and a much nicer looking Indica azalea ('Formosa') needs room to grow.

But if anyone has experience with these plants I'd appreciate a little advice. Perhaps I can keep it and have both the Helleri and the Formosa :)
 

Speedy

Yamadori
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They do back bud very well. You should have no problem cutting it back, but I would wait and do it at the end of winter. The branches do take a while to thicken.

I have been told that older Hollies don't like their roots messed with, but if you need the room anyway then there shouldn't be a problem.
 

CamdenJim

Shohin
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Thanks!
I thought I would remove it to a box in November, then cut it back in late February.
Or should I wait until the end of winter and do it all then?
 

jk_lewis

Masterpiece
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Or should I wait until the end of winter and do it all then?

Yup. Because it will not like its roots messed with. Get a huge rootball.
 
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