Fast growing trees are commonly used in Australian yards to create privacy screens. However, to ensure they remain healthy and effective, regular maintenance is crucial. In this blog, we'll introduce you to six Australian species of fast growing trees and provide valuable tips on maintaining their robust growth.
1. Lilly Pilly
Lilly Pilly trees grow rapidly and have very dense foliage, making them a popular choice for backyard privacy. These versatile natives feature glossy leaves, attractive flowers, and edible berries that attract birds. To maintain their health and enhance usefulness, tip prune Lilly Pillies from a young age to encourage thick, bushy growth with ample branching. The optimal time for pruning is late winter or early spring, just before their new growth begins. Focus on removing dead or diseased wood first, then shape the plant as desired.
2. Queensland Blue Gum
The Queensland Blue Gum is a majestic native plant that offers both privacy and grandeur. Typically, they are suited for larger properties to reach full growth potential. Young gum trees usually require regular watering, but once established, they become relatively drought-resistant. Prune gum trees in late winter, removing dead or diseased branches and shaping the tree to reduce potential hazards. Use sharp pruning tools and make cuts close to the branch collar without damaging the main trunk.
3. River Wattle
The River Wattle, with its graceful weeping habit and fine foliage, is an elegant choice for smaller yards. To maintain its health, prune River Wattle after it's flowering in late spring or early summer. Remove spent flowers and shape the plant gently, avoiding aggressive pruning that could stress the tree. Focus on removing no more than one-third of the plant's total growth at a time, prioritising dead or diseased branches.
4. Bottlebrush
Bottlebrush trees, known for their vibrant, brush-like flowers, are fast growing trees that provide effective privacy screens. They can reach heights of up to five metres and attract nectar-feeding birds. To maintain their shape, lightly prune after the flowering season. If needed, Bottlebrush trees can also tolerate heavy pruning, allowing you to control their size effectively. To achieve a tree-like form, identify a strong leading stem and trim side stems as it grows. Annual pruning is also important to maintain the shape and remove damaged branches.
5. Bush Cherry
The Bush Cherry is a versatile, fast growing tree ideal for properties of any size. It can grow up to 4 meters, or be kept at 1m high with regular pruning. Its dense growth habit and glossy leaves create an effective barrier. To control its rapid growth, prune regularly, starting in early spring. After 6 to 8 leaf pairs have grown, shorten new shoots to 1 or 2 leaf pairs. This practice will encourage dense growth while maintaining the tree's ideal shape and height for your property.
6. Pittosporum 'Silver Sheen'
The Pittosporum 'Silver Sheen', commonly known as Kohuhu has an attractive silvery-green foliage. It can reach heights of 3-5 metres and forms a dense hedge when planted in a row. To maintain its health and shape, prune in late winter or early spring before new leaves start to grow. Shape the plant by trimming the outer growth to encourage a bushier appearance. Pittosporums respond well to light pruning, but if you want to trim more aggressively to encourage new growth, the best time to do that is in the early summer.
Pruning with Expert Guidance
At Arbor Co Tree Services, we understand the importance of maintaining fast growing trees to effectively shield your privacy. With nearly 20 years of experience, our team of fully-licensed arborists is highly skilled at pruning and caring for a variety of Australian native species. We recommend regular tree pruning to promote healthy growth, maintain desired shapes, and ensure your privacy screen remains dense and effective. Contact us to schedule a maintenance service today!
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