Ilex Nellie Stevens is a popular evergreen shrub or small tree that is well-suited to gardens. Its glossy green leaves, vibrant red berries, and dense growth habit make it an excellent choice for both ornamental purposes and functional uses such as hedging or privacy screening.

Nellie Stevens are popular options and are grown for their:

• Glossy Green Leaves: One of the standout features of Ilex 'Nellie Stevens' is its attractive, dark green, glossy foliage that remains lush and vibrant throughout the year. This provides year-round color and structure to the garden, particularly in winter when many other plants lose their leaves.
• Dense Growth: The plant has a naturally dense, pyramidal growth habit, making it ideal for creating privacy screens or windbreaks in the garden.
• Ornamental Berries: From autumn to winter, Ilex 'Nellie Stevens' produces an abundance of bright red berries, which contrast beautifully against the dark green foliage. These berries provide visual interest during the colder months when many other plants are dormant.
• Small White Flowers: In spring, Ilex 'Nellie Stevens' produces small, inconspicuous white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. While not a showy feature, these flowers play an important role in supporting local pollinator populations.
• Wildlife Attraction: The berries are a valuable food source for birds and wildlife, making this holly a great addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. While the berries are not edible for humans, they are highly attractive to species such as thrushes and blackbirds.
• Fast Growth: This variety of holly is known for its relatively fast growth compared to other hollies. It can grow up to 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) per year, allowing for quicker establishment of hedging or screening compared to slower-growing evergreen alternatives.

Ilex 'Nellie Stevens' is highly adaptable to different soil types, thriving in loamy, sandy, or clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. It prefers slightly acidic soil but can tolerate a range of pH levels, making it versatile for various garden conditions. Performs well in both full sun and partial shade, making it suitable for different parts of the garden. It can thrive in shaded areas, which adds to its versatility in garden design. Nellie Stevens is well-suited to the UK’s climate, being hardy to cold winters and able to withstand frosty conditions. It tolerates a wide range of temperatures, making it reliable for both mild and more exposed areas of the country.

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

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Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.