All hollies take to shearing very well. Most can be maintained to as little as 2-3 feet, while still flowering and fruiting on the new growth of the season. Left to their own accord, most hollies will form broadly pyramidal large shrubs. Hollies are best pruned in late June, with a light reshaping in October if needed.

Most insect pests and diseases tend to leaves hollies alone, with a few exceptions. They can be attacked by lacewing bugs, which are characterized by small pale yellow dappled spots caused by small fly-like bugs with relatively large wings feeding on the undersides of the leaves. Spider Mites, which are tiny insect-like pests, may attack hollies as well, especially in drier areas. These pests are usually easily controlled by most pesticides when used as directed, although repeat applications are probably necessary. With the exception of Japanese Hollies, deer tend to like hollies. They should be avoided where deer tend to roam.