How to Care for Australian Native Plants
There are thousands of Australian native plants that can be used in your garden. Among the most common are eucalyptus, melaleuca, acacia, callistemon (bottlebrush) and kangaroo paws. The needs and care of these plants can be as diverse as the areas in which they grow in Australia, where the terrain ranges from tropical rainforests to Australian Alps to deserts. Although there are basic guidelines, proper care comes down to knowing what type of plant you have and specifically where it came from. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Determine the type of native Australian plant you have. Visit the library or buy a book about plants and find the one you are looking for to determine the particular needs of the plant. Use online resources such as the Australian Native Plants Society, which has a guide to Australian plants.
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Mulch around the base of the plant using old pine needles or fine wood chip mulch. Mulch is great for keeping needed moisture in, but it also can keep valuable moisture out if applied in thick layers. Mulch in a thin layer, about 2 inches thick. Start mulching about 4 to 5 inches away from the plant stem to deter stem or collar rot.
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Water your native Australian plants deeply once a week, rather than light watering several times a week, according to the Australian Native Plants Society. How much water and when to water will depend on the type of plant, the soil condition and the climate. For example, you cannot expect a native plant from the rainforest to thrive if you water it like a plant that's native to a dry region. In general, plants such as bottlebrush, eucalyptus and acacia do not require extra watering, since rainfall is usually sufficient.
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Use an organic fertilizer such as blood and bone in small amounts in early spring. Apply the fertilizer to wet soil right after watering around the root zone. Many Australian native plants do not need fertilizing, and some species such as kangaroo paws, grevillea and telopea can be harmed by phosphorus fertilizers. Use organic fertilizers sparingly and only if your plants are doing poorly.
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Pruning can be done to shape shrubby plants. Some plants will respond well to pruning, but some can be greatly harmed by drastic pruning, so determine what type of plant you are dealing with. Callistemon, banksia and eucalyptus will respond to moderate pruning with invigorated growth. Most plants can be pruned once a year immediately after flowering, but do not prune more than one-third of the plant. Leave plenty of leaves and new growth intact.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep a close eye on the plants to make sure they are receiving enough sunlight and water. If a plant is not doing well, experiment with sun exposure and watering times.
Knowing the type of plant you are dealing with is the only way to provide adequate care.
