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forest plant
Finding a holly plant in Italy is very easy: the plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is present as spontaneous vegetation in practically all regions. This does not exclude cultivation: on the contrary, in gardens and private lands, holly has considerable diffusion for various reasons. First of all, it is a very resistant plant that does not require much effort to maintain, being precisely native to these regions and therefore perfectly adapted to our climatic conditions. Besides. The holly is very fascinating and impressive because of its particular colored leaves and fruits, which make it a very decorative element: this is why it is a resistant and evergreen plant. I’ Holly is traditionally used for the creation of decorations and garlands with which to decorate homes during the Christmas period. By nature, if grown in optimal conditions, over the years holly can grow up to twenty meters in height. Often, however, it is preferred to grow it in a bushy form: in this case it can reach five meters. Holly is one of the most varied plants: there are four hundred species, while there are many hybrids. we prefer to cultivate it giving it a bushy shape: in this case it can reach five meters. Holly is one of the most varied plants: there are four hundred species, while there are many hybrids. we prefer to cultivate it giving it a bushy shape: in this case it can reach five meters. Holly is one of the most varied plants: there are four hundred species, while there are many hybrids.
Cultivated
Holly can be grown in any type of soil, although it does not tolerate basil or clay. It requires a semi-shaded position, so that in summer it is not directly exposed to the rays of the sun for long hours. It is a plant that can easily fall prey to parasites and fungi: for this reason it is important that the holly is protected with the appropriate preventive treatments and that environmental conditions that can favor the proliferation of parasites are avoided: in this cases, therefore, regulate Pruning will be carried out to ensure correct air exchange and adequate lighting of the internal fronds, while the waterings will not be too frequent, to meet the needs of the plant and avoid water stagnation . precisely in favor of the multiplication of small insects. When the presence of pests is identified, it is good to intervene in good time to recognize the species of pests and use the most appropriate specific pesticides, completely eradicating the colonization, which otherwise would damage again.
holly reproduction
In nature, the reproduction of the holly occurs by the fall to the ground of the berries, which contain the fertile seeds. It is a reproducible procedure also for cultivation at home, but it must be borne in mind that, indoors or outdoors, from fresh or dry seeds, it will still be necessary to wait several months before germination , while a long time. have a size holly. In addition, propagation by seeds does not make it possible to know in advance whether a male or a female will be born. For these reasons therefore, reproduction by cuttings is generally preferred, which allows to have a real plant in a short time and to select male or female specimens as desired. Cuttings are taken in late spring or summer from the apex of berryless branches, which will be stripped of leaves on the lower parts and then placed in the ground. The cutting will be kept in a cool, shaded place until it is rooted. After germination, with the growth of shoots, the seedling can be regularly placed in the ground. Pruning serves primarily to control the shape and development of the holly, which generally does not require particularly invasive interventions. It usually takes place twice a year, at the beginning and end of summer. which will be cleared of leaves in the lower parts and then placed on the ground. The cutting will be kept in a cool, shaded place until it is rooted. After germination, with the growth of shoots, the seedling can be regularly placed in the ground. Pruning serves primarily to control the shape and development of the holly, which generally does not require particularly invasive interventions. It usually takes place twice a year, at the beginning and end of summer. which will be cleared of leaves in the lower parts and then placed on the ground. The cutting will be kept in a cool, shaded place until it is rooted. After germination, with the growth of shoots, the seedling can be regularly placed in the ground. Pruning serves primarily to control the shape and development of the holly, which generally does not require particularly invasive interventions. It usually takes place twice a year, at the beginning and end of summer. Pruning serves primarily to control the shape and development of the holly, which generally does not require particularly invasive interventions. It usually takes place twice a year, at the beginning and end of summer. Pruning serves primarily to control the shape and development of the holly, which generally does not require particularly invasive interventions. It usually takes place twice a year, at the beginning and end of summer.
Holly: holly in the tradition
Diffusion and ease of cultivation have made holly a widespread plant since ancient times: it is therefore not surprising that many traditions and customs are linked to it. Holly is a symbol of Christmas par excellence, present in homes as a decorative plant or twig or part of more elaborate decorations. The berries, with their bright colors, are a symbol of happiness and jubilation and are therefore perfectly linked to the deep meaning of Christmas and the nativity scene, as well as the meaning of perennial life attributed to this evergreen plant. While in the British Isles holly was considered a sacred plant, while among the ancient Romans it was traditional to give sprigs of holly to spouses as a sign of auspiciousness. An equally old tradition is that concerning the holly on the American continent: it seems that the Indians, before the discovery and colonization, already used the leaves for decoctions and infusions supposed to stimulate strength, while, planted near villages, the bushes were reputed to be able to drive away the evil spirits. Symbols of strength and power, holly branches accompanied warriors in battle.