Just purchased Sky Pencil Holly (3 ea) in 2 gal containers. Went to have them on patio in containers. How big of a container should I use to start with? ty
They should be large enough to contain the rootball plus about 1 inch on all sides.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/holly/care-of-sky-pencil-holly.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/shgen/potted-shrubs-growing-shrubs-in-containers.htm
We are expecting freezing temperatures and strong winds.
They are fully hardy in your area. There will be no need to care for them unless the wind is so harsh that it risks snapping them. In that case, They will have needed to be planted near a wall. Otherwise, they are hardy and capable of surviving your zone with no extra protection.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/holly/care-of-sky-pencil-holly.htm
sky pencil is doing well except for drooping due to heavy rain and snow, have it tied up but not sure if it will stand on its own
This information should help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/rain-knocking-down-plants.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/protecting-plants-winter.htm