Plant holly (Ilex aquifolium) for a hedge spacing plants 45cm (18in) apart in a single row or staggered double rows for extra density. Prepare the ground by clearing weeds and enriching the soil with compost, then plant at the same depth as before, firm in, and water well. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, and keep watered during the first couple of years.

Trim hedges at the end of the bird nesting season in late summer. If nests are present, wait until the fledglings have flown before trimming. If holly is being grown as a formal hedge, we advise using a hedge clipping guide - string tied between two posts works well. Wear suitable protective clothing when clipping holly (such as strong gloves and eye guards). After trimming, apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plants.

Unfortunately we cannot guarantee the sex of these seed grown plants.