Native Tree Care FAQ - Syzygium 'Straight & Narrow' Lilly Pilly
Frequently Asked Questions: Syzygium 'Straight & Narrow' Lilly Pilly Care
Q: How often should I water my Straight & Narrow Lilly Pilly?
Water deeply daily during establishment (first 6–8 weeks), especially through warm weather. Once established, water every few days during dry spells to maintain steady moisture and encourage dense foliage. Ensure soil drains freely to prevent root rot.
Q: What’s the best soil for Straight & Narrow?
Straight & Narrow thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It adapts to a range of soils but prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). Our growers raise these trees in a premium potting mix with slow-release fertilisers and organic matter, which supports strong roots and balanced nutrition. When planting, avoid using heavy garden soil — instead, replicate the grower’s mix by surrounding the root ball with premium potting mix for natives to promote aeration and nutrient consistency.
Q: When and how should I prune my Straight & Narrow?
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. For a dense, formal hedge, tip-prune after each growth flush—around 3–4 times per year in Brisbane and SE QLD. Frequent light trims encourage side-branching and help maintain the plant’s narrow, upright form. Always use clean, sharp tools, pruning just above a leaf node.
- Late winter – main shaping prune
- Early spring – tip for branching
- Early summer – maintain compact form
- Late summer/early autumn – light tidy before cooler weather
Q: How fast does Straight & Narrow grow?
Typically grows 80–100cm per year in SE QLD in good conditions. A fast grower that forms tall, tidy hedges ideal for narrow screening spaces.
General Native Tree Care
Q: What’s the best time to plant native trees in Australia?
Autumn (March–May) is ideal, allowing roots to establish before summer heat. Planting in autumn or winter in Brisbane and SE QLD’s warmer areas helps reduce watering while plants root out. Spring planting also works but requires close attention to watering through the first spring and summer, as local spring conditions can mimic summer heat.
Q: Do native trees need fertiliser?
Use a low-phosphorus native fertiliser sparingly in spring. Over-fertilising can cause soft growth and reduce flowering.
Q: What pests should I watch for?
Straight & Narrow is a psyllid-resistant variety of Syzygium australe, bred for clean foliage in warm, humid regions. Maintain regular light pruning and airflow to keep foliage fresh. Other occasional pests include scale and leaf miner — treat early with horticultural oil if required.
Planting Tips
Q: How far apart should I plant for screening?
Space 1m apart for a tight vertical screen, or up to 1.2m for looser spacing.
Q: Can I grow Straight & Narrow in pots?
Yes — it performs well with diligent irrigation in large containers with regular pruning. Use a premium native potting mix and ensure excellent drainage.
Need more specific advice? Contact us for personalised recommendations for your native trees!
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