Sky pencil holly

I have lost two plants live in Texas How often should I water. They just suddenly turned brown.

In Texas, watering frequency depends on the type of plant, the time of year, and the specific conditions in your area. However, if your plants suddenly turned brown, they might be stressed due to inconsistent watering, extreme heat, or other environmental factors.

Here are some general guidelines:

1. Summer (Hot Weather): Water deeply 2-3 times a week. Texas summers can be extremely hot, so it's essential to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist. Early morning or late evening is the best time to water.

2. Spring/Fall: Water about once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. The cooler temperatures and reduced evaporation mean plants need less frequent watering.

3. Winter: Reduce watering significantly, especially for outdoor plants. Once every 2-3 weeks may be sufficient, depending on the weather.

4. Soil Check: Before watering, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger 1-2 inches into the soil. If it's dry, it's time to water.

If the plants are brown:

• Overwatering: Could be a cause if the soil is constantly soggy.
• Underwatering: More likely in hot weather; the soil dries out too quickly.
• Sunburn/Heat Stress: Texas sun can be intense; ensure plants are shaded if needed.

Consider adjusting your watering schedule and providing some shade during the hottest parts of the day. If the browning persists, it might be worth checking for pests or diseases as well.

Can Sky Holly Pencil be grown in containers? ?

Yes, Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil') can be grown successfully in containers. Its narrow, upright growth habit makes it particularly well-suited for container gardening, where space is limited, or for use as a vertical accent on patios, balconies, or entryways.

Tips for Growing Sky Pencil Holly in Containers:

1. Container Size:

   • Choose a large, sturdy container that is at least 18-24 inches deep and wide. This provides enough room for the roots to grow and helps keep the plant stable, especially since Sky Pencil Holly can grow up to 6-10 feet tall.

2. Soil:

   • Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. You can also mix in some compost or organic matter to improve soil fertility and structure.

3. Watering:

   • Container-grown plants dry out faster than those in the ground, so regular watering is important. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, and ensure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

4. Sunlight:

   • Sky Pencil Holly prefers full sun to partial shade. In containers, it will do best in a location where it receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.

5. Fertilization:

   • Feed the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer to support healthy growth.

6. Winter Care:

   • In colder climates, the roots of container plants are more susceptible to freezing. To protect the plant in winter, you can move the container to a sheltered location, such as an unheated garage or wrap the container in insulation. Alternatively, consider burying the pot in the ground for winter or grouping containers together and mulching around them to add insulation.

With proper care, Sky Pencil Holly can thrive in containers and provide a stylish, architectural element to your outdoor space.

How tall is the ilex steeds sky pencil for 14.99 in the pot?

The one gallon Sky pencil holly is about 10 inches in height. This is measuring from the top of the bucket to the top of the plant. 

Hello. Do you happen to know if these are toxic for dogs?

Yes, Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil') is considered toxic to dogs. The berries and leaves of holly plants contain substances that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain if ingested by pets. While not typically fatal, it's important to keep Sky Pencil Holly out of reach of curious dogs to prevent accidental ingestion. If you're concerned about pet safety, consider choosing non-toxic plants for your landscape.

Are they deer resistant?

Yes, Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata ‘Sky Pencil’) is generally considered deer-resistant. While no plant is completely deer-proof, this variety is less likely to be damaged by deer, making it a good choice for areas where deer browsing is a concern.

If I order 2 sky pencil hollies will that be of similar size (height)?

generally speaking, yes, they will be around the same height/size. 

is it zone 5 hardy

Sky Pencil Holly is hardy down to zone 5, but it may need protection in harsh winters.

Do I need to cover them for the cold I planted them this fall live in Houston can the survive the winter here especially the cold 18 degree weather for Christmas

Sky Pencil Holly is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, so it can generally survive winters in Houston (zone 9). However, newly planted shrubs are more vulnerable to cold damage. For 18-degree weather, it's best to cover them with burlap or frost cloth to provide extra protection. Mulch around the base to insulate the roots, but avoid piling mulch against the trunk. Remove the cover when the weather warms up.