How prolific is a holly tree?

Hi everyone

We've had a large holly tree for over 40 years now right next to the garage. Recently i've gotten into gardening and food growing.
In the photo you'll see not only that the holly tree put up loads of suckers and became more like a massive bush, covering the entire back wall of the garage, but being a shade tolerant plant, is using a prime spot in the garden for a sun loving one.

I got rid of all the suckers, as you can see in the other photo, and cut the holly back high enough that it no longer casts shade on the garage. On the right side of the window I will plant grapes, and in the freed up soil patch I will grow vegetable and shrubs

The soil is bone dry and sandy. The tree must have been sucking the moisture out of it.

So the question is, can I tackle any future holly suckers fast enough to prevent them competing with my new plants, or will it be fighting a losing battle.
I never watch the bush close enough to see how prolifically or vigorously it grew.

It seems a shame given what a great habitat it provides for wildlife, though granted much of that will remain gone to prevent shade.

I could propagate from a cutting and plant it elsewhere I suppose.

I certainly don't want to keep digging up that patch to remove suckers, and damage new plants in the process.

Any thoughts welcome

 

I dug out the root. But surely that tree is going to want to send out roots again in the direction of my grapevine and veggies?

Also,was wondering if the cut sticks would re-root and grow if I stick them in the ground as I would like to use them as stakes