What Do I Do With My Female Holly Plant Until Spring Arrives?

Question

It is winter in CT, I received a holly plant as a special Christmas gift. It has berries making it a female. My friend kept it dry and protected from the elements since October. Presently, a storm is on its way and I’m “protecting” it by keeping it in my car and will not be watered. .

Answer 1

If it has been kept indoors, it will not be able to survive the cold outside because it has not been allowed to go dormant. You will need to bring it into somewhere warmer and keep it there for the winter and treat it like a houseplant.

If it has been kept outside, it has gone dormant and should be fine in the car for a few days, though I would wrap a blanket around the base to keep the roots a stable temperature and you need to remove it ASAP if the temp in the car will rise above 40F. It will be ok for a few days without water.

Once the storm is passed, place it in a sheltered location, like against the foundation of a building or in a shed or garage. If it will be in a location where it will not get water, water it once every two weeks. It will not need much water in the winter while it is dormant.