Cold Hardy Hollies
I live in Drexel Hill and last winter desiccated and as a result defoliated my 5 blue hollies. I have resigned myself that they need to be replaced after having them for over 10 years with no problems. I went to a local nursery and they recommended Blue Angel but after googling the plant it seems that this is less cold hardy than Blue Boy/Girl, Blue Prince/Princess and China Boy/Girl. Am I being led astray? What is the best option? They have a southwest exposure.
Thank you!
Thank you!
Answer
Have your hollies regrown the leaves? Last winter was unusual but many plants that did not do well have since recovered and have new leaves. Blue hollies should be hardy in this area. Blue Angel is not more hardy than the other blue hollies that you mentioned.
If the hollies have recovered, it would be useful to apply wilt pruf, an anti-desiccant next winter. To protect from a very cold winter, it should be applied in November/December and again in February.