After I Prune The Branches Of My Holly Trees, Can…
Rose Asked
After I prune the branches of my holly trees, can I stick them in my flower box soil and use them as Christmas decorations? Will they last all winter in New England?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Rose: Yes, you have got the right idea! Each season when it is time to change out the containers, I walk through the garden to ponder the possibilities. Using plant material that is already on hand is a creative way to spruce up our containers and make them original. Luckily for us, this is perfect timing for adding them to a winter arrangement or combination planting. I find it easier leave the soil in the containers and stick the ends of the cuttings down a few inches for some stability; that way when the wind blows they stay in place. Start with the tallest cuttings and use them in the center or the back depending on where you want them, then work your way out and around with the rest. Most evergreens will last all winter like this and then the soil is there for planting in the spring. There are many choices, including yellow and red twig dogwoods, which are stunning this time of year, and don’t forget about deciduous holly or Nandina berries. Contorted filbert or anything with an interesting growth habit will add structure. There are so many choices that each container can be different and at a minimal cost! If you have not done your fall containers, consider using ornamental grass as the center and fill in the sides with pumpkins, hedge apples (osage oranges), and pansies. It makes a very festive display and the ornamental grass will need to be cut back now or in the spring so this way you are still able to enjoy it.
