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Taxus x media ‘Hicksii’
Let me introduce you to the ‘Hicksii’ yew, an evergreen shrub that’s turn out to be pal of mine.
After I first met ‘Hicksii,’ I’ll admit I wasn’t notably impressed, however during the last decade we’ve turn out to be fairly shut.
With the acquisition of my property, a mass planting of those shrubs got here with the deal. They sat, 10 in a row, perched on the aspect of the hill, framing a scraggly, unkept backyard and searching – frankly – forlorn.
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At the moment, my predominant gardening objective was to develop a meals forest, with the apparent intent to feed people.
‘Hicksii’ is poisonous to people, as are all yews, so I wasn’t offered on the thought of utilizing helpful house to maintain them round.
However as my general plan has advanced, I’ve grown to like these backyard buddies a lot that I’ve even added a couple of extra to my panorama during the last decade.
The Hicks yew is my low-maintenance, hard-working hero. With a big property, I don’t have the time and sources to dedicate to each nook and cranny of my panorama, and this shrub has been a game-changer. It’s my decorative BFF.
In the event you haven’t thought of it but, or if you happen to’re right here to be taught extra about ‘Hicksii,’ you’re in the correct place.
On this article, I’ll cowl all of the issues I really like about my buddy, and I’ll inform you tips on how to develop, look after, and discover these shrubs in your personal backyard. Right here’s a fast preview:
Able to be taught extra about this reliable evergreen shrub? Let’s do it, of us!
What Is Hicks Yew?
Generally often known as Hicks yew, Hicks hybrid yew, or Hicks intermediate yew, this evergreen conifer shrub is a well-liked standout within the Taxus genus.
‘Hicksii’ is a hybrid cultivar, born from the union of the English yew (T. baccata) and the Japanese yew (T. cuspidata).
So, it’s received genes from one of the best of each worlds: the decorative worth of its English mother or father paired with the winter hardiness gained from its Japanese lineage. You may name this plant a worldwide citizen!
The designation Taxus x media is given to a big group of hybrid cultivars that may fluctuate significantly in dimension and character.
The ‘Hicksii’ yew has a dense and slender columnar development behavior, reaching a mean dimension of 9 to 12 ft tall with a ramification that spans about one-half to one-third of its top.
Over time, when allowed to develop to its pure form, the highest of the plant turns into wider than the bottom.
The needles are shiny darkish inexperienced on high and light-weight inexperienced beneath, and stay on the plant year-round, making it an all-season eye-catcher.
You could be questioning, “The place can I develop this magnificence?” Nicely, it thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 7. It’s not too choosy however does one of the best in well-drained, fertile, and moist soil situations.
In the event you’re on the lookout for a plant that’s versatile, hardy, and downright handsome, ‘Hicksii’ may simply be your new backyard BFF too.
Since this plant is a cultivated hybrid, it’s received some historical past! Curious to know the entire story? Let’s dive right into a full lesson, lets?
Cultivation and Historical past
The ‘Hicksii’ yew is a little bit of a hybrid globetrotter within the botanical world, with English and Japanese lineage. The hybridization of those two yews, nevertheless, occurred proper right here in North America.
In 1904, a horticulturist from Massachusetts named T. D. Hatfield started experimenting with elevating new hybrids from seed. His work is documented in a paper he printed in 1929.
Across the similar time, a nurseryman named Henry Hicks was experimenting with rising seedlings at his nursery, Hicks Nurseries, Inc., in Lengthy Island, New York.
In a 1924 Hicks Nursery catalog, he launched his new choice, ‘Hicksii,’ to the world, and it’s been a preferred alternative ever since.
This plant’s magnificence, mixed with its practical versatility, caught the attention of gardeners and horticulturists. It thrives in well-drained soils, tolerates drought, and may even face up to lower than superb city situations like air pollution.
This fashionable plant has really stood the check of time. So, whether or not you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner with a spade, the ‘Hicksii’ yew provides a mix of magnificence, versatility, and historical past that’s laborious to withstand.
In the event you’re questioning tips on how to get your palms on this beautiful, inexperienced shrub, let’s examine propagation strategies.
Hicks Yew Propagation
So, you’re pondering of propagating your individual ‘Hicksii’ yew, huh? Nicely, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of tips on how to make that occur.
Let’s first deal with the choice of rising this plant from seed.
Whereas it’s true that yews do produce seeds encased in a fleshy aril, it’s essential to notice that ‘Hicksii’ is a cultivated hybrid plant. Which means a propagated seedling won’t develop true to the mother or father plant.
As for division, that’s typically not advisable for yews. They’ve a fancy root system that doesn’t take kindly to being break up, and with such a therapy it’s possible you’ll run the chance of dropping your plant.
Hicks yews are typically propagated from cuttings that are normally taken from semi-hardwood stems and handled with rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
It’s a little bit of a ready recreation, however if you happen to’re affected person and have a inexperienced thumb, you’ll find yourself with a brand new plant that’s a spitting picture of its mother or father.
In the event you’re affected person and into the enjoyment of watching one thing develop from scratch and have the time to spare, go for it!
However if you happen to’re on the lookout for a sooner, much less labor-intensive, and extra dependable route, snagging a potted ‘Hicksii’ from a good nursery goes to be your greatest wager. It’s simple and provides an instantaneous payoff.
Transplanting
I’ll fast-forward by way of your buying journey the place you decide up your child yew – for extra tricks to purchase a nursery plant, see the The place to Purchase part of this information beneath.
Assuming you’ve your potted plant in your possession, let’s stroll by way of the steps of transplanting. Roll up your sleeves. Let’s go!
First issues first, decide a spot that will get mixture of solar and shade. ‘Hicksii’ isn’t too fussy however does recognize well-drained, fertile soil. So, in case your backyard is swampy, you may wish to rethink your chosen location.
When you’ve received the proper spot, dig a gap that’s about twice the width of the pot and simply as deep. This offers the roots some room to stretch out and get cozy.
Earlier than you plop the plant in, combine some natural matter into the soil on the backside of the outlet. Belief me, your yew will thanks for it later.
Now, gently take away the yew from its pot. If it’s clinging on for pricey life, give the edges of the pot faucet. You’ll want to tease out pot certain roots and trim any that look unhealthy.
Whereas it’s by no means a good suggestion so as to add fertilizer throughout planting, I’m a fan of merchandise that encourage the expansion of useful fungi. Take into account inoculating your soil with mycorrhizal fungi at this level.
Root Construct 240
I like to recommend Root Construct 240, offered by Arbico Organics.
Now, place the plant within the gap, ensuring it’s on the similar depth it was within the pot. Fill the outlet again in with soil, tamping it down as you go to take away any air pockets.
Water generously proper after planting. This helps settle the soil and provides the roots drink.
For the primary few weeks, keep watch over the moisture degree and water as wanted. These yews are fairly drought tolerant as soon as established, however they do like drink every now and then.
And voila! You’ve efficiently transplanted your ‘Hicksii’ yew. Give your self a pat on the again and blend a celebratory cocktail or fancy mocktail; you’ve earned it!
In abstract, whereas the artwork of propagation is fascinating, it’s not for the faint of coronary heart—or the impatient. However hey, gardening is all in regards to the journey, proper?
So, whether or not you select to propagate or to buy, you’re in for a rewarding expertise rising your new shrub.
Talking of rising, let’s examine the wants of Hicks yew a little bit additional. As I all the time say, each bit of information helps, proper? Let’s develop.
The best way to Develop Hicks Yew
Alright, of us. Let’s focus on one of the best rising situations and tips on how to care in your ‘Hicksii’ yew in additional element.
First off, the best location is versatile. Suited to USDA Zones 4 to 7, making it fairly a resilient alternative for numerous climates, this plant is fairly darn versatile, thriving in each full solar and half shade.
So, whether or not you’ve received a sunny spot or {a partially} shaded nook, so long as it has enough space to develop, your shrub can be glad.
What about spacing?
As I discussed, the typical top of this shrub is 9 to 12 ft. The important thing phrase right here is “common.” A fast on-line search will reveal a complicated vary of six to twenty ft.
And because the mature unfold is about one-half to one-third of the peak, this implies your shrub could possibly be anyplace between two and ten ft large. So, what provides?
Environmental components can play a job. Soil high quality, water availability, and even the quantity of solar or shade the plant receives can affect its development.
It’s like the way you may thrive in a bustling metropolis whereas your twin prefers the quiet countryside.
Additionally, care and upkeep can’t be ignored. Pruning, fertilizing, and common TLC can all impression how crops develop. It’s the plant equal of going to the gymnasium; you get out what you place in.
As a result of the peak and width of those shrubs can fluctuate broadly, it’s not completely a roll of the cube. You may nonetheless plan forward. Learn the nursery tag and ask an expert within the nursery or greenhouse for assist to find out the right spacing.
Now, let’s discuss soil. As I’ve talked about, this plant isn’t too fussy however prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Sandy or loamy soils are greatest.
And guess what? It’s drought tolerant too! However don’t let it swim; it doesn’t like moist ft. ‘Hicksii’ additionally prefers soil with a pH degree of 6.0 to 7.0.
What are the watering wants of this shrub? Nicely, it’s a little bit of a Goldilocks state of affairs – not an excessive amount of, not too little.
Ensure that the soil is moist however well-drained. Overwatering can result in root rot, and no person needs that.
Right here’s a bonus: this plant is a little bit of a social butterfly. It will get alongside properly with most backyard crops.
However heed this warning: consuming the seeds contained in the berries of yews poses the best danger of toxicity, however all components of the plant, aboveground and beneath, are toxic to people and pets if ingested. So don’t let Fido dig to cover his bones close to your ‘Hicksii’ yew.
To sum it up, decide a sunny or partially shaded spot, give it well-drained soil, water it excellent, and provides it room to develop. Like I stated: simple peasy, proper?
If you wish to be taught extra, learn our complete yew rising information.
Rising Ideas
- Select a location with full solar to half shade.
- Plant in well-draining, fertile, sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
- Preserve soil moist however keep away from overwatering.
Pruning and Upkeep
‘Hicksii’ yew is as versatile as it’s resilient. However even the hardiest crops may use a little bit TLC, proper? So, I’ll cowl a couple of objects that can assist you hold this evergreen magnificence in tip-top form.
First issues first, let’s discuss pruning. This shrub is forgiving relating to snipping and shaping. You may handle its top and management its form by way of pruning, and it tolerates even essentially the most extreme cuts.
The perfect time for pruning is in late winter to early spring, earlier than new development begins.
Whether or not you’re going for a topiary masterpiece or only a neat hedge, this yew’s received you lined.
As for fertilizing, this plant isn’t too fussy. It grows greatest in fertile, moist soil, so a balanced fertilizer ought to do the trick. Skip the primary yr of planting, and apply yearly each spring.
A two- to three-inch layer of natural mulch across the base ought to suffice. Simply be sure you don’t pile it up towards the trunk; we don’t wish to encourage rot and illness.
Talking of weeds, let’s speak in regards to the backyard chore all of us like to hate. Retaining the world round your shrub weed-free is extra than simply an aesthetic alternative; it’s about giving your plant the house to thrive.
Weeds can compete along with your yew for vitamins, water, and daylight, so it’s greatest to maintain them at bay. A easy hand-pulling session from time to time ought to do the trick.
In the event you’ve mulched correctly, this process turns into even simpler, as mulch helps to suppress weed development.
So, placed on your favourite gardening gloves and maintain a weekend weeding celebration. Your yew will thanks for it!
And there you’ve it – with pruning, fertilizing, mulching, and now weeding underneath your belt, you’re properly in your solution to changing into a ‘Hicksii’ yew whisperer.
If this carefree shrub has captured your consideration, hold studying to be taught the place to search out one (or many) so as to add to your individual backyard.
The place to Purchase
So, you’ve determined that ‘Hicksii’ yew is the lacking piece in your backyard puzzle. Implausible! Now, the place to search out this evergreen gem?
Nicely, you’re in luck. In the event you reside in USDA Zones 4 to 7, chances are high good that you simply gained’t have to go on a wild goose chase.
These crops are fairly fashionable and are generally stocked in native nurseries and greenhouses. Simply pop in, and also you’ll possible spot them hanging out, ready for a ceaselessly dwelling like yours.
However what if you happen to’re extra of a web based shopper, or maybe native choices are slim? No worries, the web’s received your again. There are respected on-line sellers that may ship proper to the doorstep.
‘Hicksii’
In the event you’re planning a hedge or different design that requires a number of crops, try ‘Hicksii’ at Planting Tree. These shrubs can be found in one- and three-gallon containers.
And if you happen to’re on the lookout for a bigger, extra established shrub, skip forward a couple of years and go to Nature Hills Nursery.
They promote container-grown ‘Hicksii’ yew crops in #5 containers which might be already three to 5 years previous.
So, whether or not you’re an in-person or digital browser, discovering this evergreen is simple.
Managing Pests and Illness
It’s time to deal with the everlasting battle between gardeners and nature. Whereas ‘Hicksii’ yews are typically hardy crops, they’re not completely proof against the woes of the backyard.
As with all pests and illness, commentary and correct plant administration is vital.
Look ahead to indicators of misery, examine crops usually, apply sanitary backyard strategies, and react in a well timed method if you happen to spot a problem.
This shrub could also be vulnerable to a couple herbivores and a few insect critters, in addition to a couple of undesirable illnesses.
Herbivores
As I discussed earlier, ‘Hicksii’ yew crops are poisonous to people and pets.
The needles, seeds, and even the wooden and roots are toxic. All domesticated animals, together with livestock, ought to steer clear.
Fortunately, rabbits appear to know higher, so that they shouldn’t trouble your yews.
However a couple of animals appear to flee these poisonous results. Wild deer, moose, and elk can chomp these crops and stroll away unscathed.
Which means if you happen to reside in a rural setting the place these particular creatures frequent your gardens, be looking out for harm, particularly within the winter when meals sources are scarce.
If it turns into a problem it’s possible you’ll wish to contemplate putting in deer fencing to discourage undesirable guests to the backyard buffet.
Bugs
I’m sorry if bugs make you squeamish, however we have to discuss them. Not solely can they straight harm your crops, however they’ll additionally not directly introduce pathogens.
Whereas these bugs may offer you a little bit of a headache, they’re not unbeatable. Just a little vigilance and the correct therapy can go a great distance. Let’s take a more in-depth look.
Bud Mites
These tiny critters, Cecidophyopsis psilaspis, could cause harm and even dying to buds. They have an inclination to overwinter between bud scales, and peak in late summer time and early fall.
In the event you discover distorted needles and shoots, it’s time to behave. Remedy with insecticidal cleaning soap or horticultural oil might help management these mites.
Mealybugs
Grownup feminine mealybugs are small, brownish coloured, oval-shaped, and seem waxy and lined in white “fluff.” They are often laborious to identify as they like to cover within the inside of the plant.
Signs of infestation embody leaf loss and concurrent infections with black sooty mildew. If populations develop uncontrolled, making use of pesticides like neem oil might be efficient.
Study extra about tips on how to handle mealybugs in our information.
Fletcher Scale
Grownup fletcher scale females are globular delicate scale bugs that seem yellow to brown in shade.
They’ll trigger common plant well being decline and produce sticky honeydew, attracting different pests and mildew.
Horticultural oil or insecticidal cleaning soap might be efficient for battling an infestation.
Try our information to scale bugs to be taught extra.
Taxus Weevils
Otiorhynchus sulcatus, also called Taxus weevils, are essentially the most devastating of the foundation weevils.
The larvae, or grubs, feed on the roots of crops whereas the grownup weevils, or beetles, are about half and inch lengthy and should chew crescent-shaped holes in leaves.
Useful nematodes might be utilized as a soil drench to regulate these pests within the larval phases. Steinernema carpocapsae and Steinernema glaseri are two sorts of nematodes which might be efficient towards this insect.
NemAttack Useful Nematodes
In the event you’re on the lookout for these “good guys,” head over to Arbico Organics to choose up NemAttack™ – Sc Useful Nematodes.
Tortrix Moth
This little man is also called the privet tortrix, or Clepsis consimilana. With a wingspan of 13 to 19 millimeters, it’s not the biggest moth you’ll encounter, however it may be a nuisance.
The larvae are recognized to feed on privet, lilac, and – right here’s the kicker – English yew.
So, if you happen to’re noticing some leaf harm, you may wish to hold an eye fixed out for these critters. An infestation severe sufficient to require therapy is uncommon, however, if obligatory, a biopesticide like Bacillus thuringiensis might help management the larvae.
Bonide Thuricide
Bonide® Thuricide from Arbico Organics accommodates this non-toxic micro organism (Btk) and is very efficient in controlling moths whereas within the caterpillar stage.
I’ve used it throughout infestations of gypsy moths right here in Ontario.
Illness
Right here’s a have a look at a couple of widespread illnesses recognized to plague yews, together with ‘Hicksii.’
Armillaria Root Rot
The honey fungus, also called Armillaria mellea, impacts many species of decorative timber and shrubs, together with yews.
Signs embody stunted vertical development, sparse foliage, and stunted, yellow leaves.
Essentially the most distinctive signal of an infection is the manufacturing of clusters of honey-colored mushrooms on the base of the shrub.
No efficient chemical controls are recognized, however sustaining wholesome plant vigor might help your yews to withstand an infection.
Needle Blight
This illness is attributable to Pestalotiopsis species of fungi. Characterised by needle discoloration, it may possibly result in defoliation.
This illness is extra widespread in pressured crops, so sustaining good cultural practices is vital. Fungicides will also be used as a safety measure.
Root Rot
Species of Phytophthora, soilborne oomycetes, could cause root rot, resulting in wilting and dying of the plant.
Good drainage and avoiding waterlogged situations might help forestall this illness. Chemical management choices are restricted. Affected crops needs to be eliminated and destroyed.
Finest Makes use of of Hicks Yew
What are one of the best methods to include this hardworking yew into your backyard? I like to think about this plant as a grounding drive for the house panorama – secure, dependable, and supportive, like a greatest pal.
‘Hicksii’ is an actual showstopper relating to hedging and screening. Its columnar, upright behavior makes it a super alternative for creating pure obstacles or privateness screens.
Whether or not you’re seeking to delineate your property, add a contact of inexperienced to an city setting, or just create a comfy, secluded nook in your backyard, it’s as much as the duty.
Plus, its tolerance for numerous mild situations means you may plant it in full solar, partial shade, and even full shade, supplying you with loads of choices for placement.
However don’t simply cease at hedging – this versatile plant has extra to supply.
Its evergreen foliage supplies year-round curiosity, making it an excellent addition to combined borders or as a standalone specimen.
Think about a ‘Hicksii’ yew because the centerpiece of a winter backyard, its darkish inexperienced needles contrasting superbly with a blanket of snow. And go forward, adorn it with twinkle lights!
Or image it in a proper backyard setting, pruned to your favourite form and including a contact of class.
The chances are limitless, actually. So, go forward and let your gardening creativeness run wild!
Fast Reference Rising Information
Plant Kind: | Evergreen shrub | Foliage Colour: | Inexperienced (purple fruit) |
Native to: | Cultivated selection | Upkeep: | Low |
Hardiness (USDA Zone): | 4-7 | Tolerance: | Drought, air pollution, rabbits, shade |
Bloom Time / Season: | Non-flowering (berries in summer time) | Soil Kind: | Fertile, moist, sandy loam |
Publicity: | Full solar to partial shade | Soil pH: | 6.0-7.0 |
Time to Maturity: | 20-50 years (max top) | Soil Drainage: | Nicely-draining |
Spacing: | Width of mature unfold | Attracts: | Birds, squirrels |
Planting Depth: | Depth: Depth of root system (transplants) | Makes use of: | Basis planting, hedging, screening, specimen |
Top: | 6-20 ft | Order: | Cupressales |
Unfold: | 3-12 ft | Household: | Taxaceae |
Progress Fee: | Quick (juvenile), gradual (mature) | Genus: | Taxus |
Water Wants: | Average | Species: | x media |
Widespread Pests and Illnesses: | Bud mites, mealybugs, scale, taxus weevils, tortrix moths; Armillaria, needle blight, root rot | Cultivar: | Hicksii |
An Decorative Hero for Life
My once-dismissed ‘Hicksii’ yews have turn out to be the unsung heroes of my backyard.
From their low-maintenance nature to their versatility in numerous panorama designs, these evergreen shrubs have earned their hold.
We’ve lined all the pieces from their fascinating historical past and superb rising situations to tips on how to fend off pests and illnesses.
For me, ‘Hicksii’ has confirmed to be not only a survivor, however a useful asset in my evolving panorama. I’m assured you’ll really feel the identical method.
Whether or not you’re a seasoned gardener or simply starting to get your palms soiled, I’d love to listen to your ideas.
Have you ever grown ‘Hicksii’ yews in your backyard? What are your experiences with them? Have one other favourite yew cultivar to inform me about? Drop a remark beneath and let’s hold this inexperienced dialog going!
In the event you’re on the lookout for extra decorative shrubs so as to add to your backyard, try these articles subsequent:
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