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Straightening a holly tree

Gn0meGn0me Posts: 85
in Problem solving
I've noticed it is starting to lean further away from the wall.

I'm thinking of using some kind of ratchet strap to gradually wean it upright.

Is this feasible and if so should it be gradual over what length of time?

Is there a better way or just not possible?

As you should see in the photo, the previous owner grew it in a bucket but I'm assuming the roots are in the ground as well!


Thanks very much and hope you can help.

Posts

  • steephillsteephill Posts: 2,841
    I would check to see if the roots have gone through the bucket first. If they haven't then you could replant it straighter in the soil - would be a very spiky wrestling match though. If it has already rooted then it may just be trying to grow towards the best light away from its dark corner. If so then it will always do that.
  • Gn0meGn0me Posts: 85
    Thanks, it certainly feels rooted in the ground as well and yes, it is growing towards the light.

    So I take it there's no harm in trying to straighten it with a stake behind it? I also want to tart it up a bit by giving it a haircut - would that damage it in anyway?
  • steephillsteephill Posts: 2,841
    If you can bear to do it I would give it a severe pruning removing about 2/3rds of all growth. Holly is a tough plant and will come back strongly from pruning. At least take out all the wayward stems to give a bit of breathing space for future growth. It looks to be a nice variegated variety so will be worth getting under control. I wouldn't attempt to straighten it with straps though, it will always seek the light.
  • Gn0meGn0me Posts: 85
    Thanks for all your advice.
    I feel a bit more confident in dealing with this now.
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