Hollies, especially evergreen varieties, can often be damaged by extreme winter weather. Here are a few tips for heading off some of the most common problems.

1. Siting makes a difference 

When the ground is frozen, drying wind and harsh winter sun can cause leaves to lose water faster than the plant’s roots take it up. The resulting ­tissue damage is known as winter burn. Siting an evergreen in a location that is sheltered from afternoon sun and prevailing winter winds may be enough to prevent the worst damage.

2. Create some shelter

If a plant is in an exposed spot, drive stakes around the dripline and wrap burlap or canvas around the outside of the stakes, leaving the top open. This temporary winter structure will act as a windbreak and sunscreen while still allowing for healthy air circulation around the plant.

3. Water and mulch with care

Young and old plants alike will appreciate a deep weekly watering until the ground is frozen or covered by snow. A 2- to 3-inch layer of wood chips or bark mulch over the root zone will help conserve soil moisture, but be sure to keep the mulch at least a few inches away from the base of the plant to discourage ­rodents from girdling the trunk and lower branches.

4. Watch out for heavy snow

To prevent a buildup of snow from splaying or breaking branches, gently brush or shake snow off as it accumulates. If ice builds up, however, it is best not to handle the plant, as this is likely to cause further damage. 

More on hollies

• 10 Uncommon Holly, Winterberry, and Inkberry Varieties
• Evergreen Hollies
• Pruning Hollies

Jim Resch, PhD, chair of the Research and Development Committee of the Holly Society of America, grows and evaluates new holly cultivars. Mary Tipping is the curator and plant recorder at the Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania.

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

Fiskars 7.9-12ft Extendable 2-in-1 Pole Tree Trimmer & Pruner with Rotating Head and Precision-Ground Steel Saw Blade

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

IDEAL BRANCH TRIMMER: Tree pruner that extends from 7.9 to 12 feet; Lightweight aluminum pole weighing less than five pounds to help minimize fatigue; Ideal for cutting high branches, or making low cuts without bending or kneeling. MAXIMUM POWER AND PRECISION: Fiskars Tree Pruner with Low-friction coating helps to prevent gumming up with sap or debris; Chain-drive gearing mechanism that provides 3X more power; Secure double locking system ensures extended pole stays put. LONG-LASTING AND RELIABLE: Extendable tree pruner with steel blades stay sharp through heavy use and provide excellent durability for lasting value; Fiskars pruning saws for tree trimming are built to last. QUALITY GARDEN TOOLS: From tree pruners to garden shears to Tree Loppers, Fiskars garden and yard tools are equipped with smart technologies and award-winning, ergonomic features INCLUDES: 1 Fiskars Extendable Tree Pruner with 15-Inch Double-Grind Saw (item 92406935K); Full lifetime warranty.

Buy at Amazon

CobraHead® Long Handle Weeder & Cultivator Garden Tool

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

BUILT BY GARDENERS—CobraHead tools are developed from seasons of hands-on gardening experience. EASY TO USE—Our classic garden weeding tools are great for greenhorns or green thumbs of all ages. TEMPERED STEEL BLADE—Gardeners love this tool because the curved head plows though any soil. COMFORTABLE LONG HANDLE—Our handles are made from 54-inch North Carolina ash for easy right or left-hand use. MADE IN THE USA—All of our dependable garden tools are crafted with care in Cambridge, Wisconsin.

Buy at Amazon

Fiskars Garden Tool Caddy with Removable Small Tool Storage for Indoor and Outdoor Gardening Use, Made with Recycled Plastic

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Fiskars Gardening Tool Caddy stores tools and supplies for easy access and transportation from indoors to out. Body is made of durable, lightweight, resin with 20% post-consumer recycled plastic. Spacious toolbox includes a removable bin with holes for wall mounting and is the perfect organizer for snips, pruners, and more. Handle locks in place for one-handed carrying, or use side handles for two-handed carrying. Lifetime Warranty.

Buy at Amazon