Plant Care Tips
Your Ultimate Guide to Caring for a Ficus Tree
Varieties: Ficus Hilii, Ficus Flash, Ficus Figaro Species: Part of Fig tree variety Evergreen or deciduous: Ficus are evergreen trees Looking for a guide on how to take care of your ficus tree? You've come to the right place! In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about ficus hedging trees. We'll provide information on the different varieties of ficus, care tips, propagation instructions, and more. So whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, you'll find all the information you need here! Varieties of Ficus Ficus trees are an evergreen tree and apart of the fig trees variety. They are popular hedging plants because they are fast-growing and easy to care for. There are many different varieties of ficus, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. All ficus has green glossy shiny leaves, and large, violin-shaped leaves. The most common types of ficus trees include: Ficus hilli: Ficus Hillii is one of the most common hedging trees amongst the ficus variety. They grow quickly and have. large glossy leaves. These trees are also very hardy and require little maintenance. Ficus hilli is able to withstand both heat and cold temperatures. They grow to be up to 30 meters tall but can be pruned to maintain the desired height. Because of their size, these trees make great landscape accents. Ficus Flash: The Ficus Flash is another popular type of ficus tree. They are smaller than the Ficus Hilii Flash and grow to around 10 meters in height. Their leaves are dark green. These trees are very hardy and can tolerate extreme weather conditions. Ficus Figaro: The Ficus Figaro is another popular choice among gardeners. It has a compact growth habit with small dark leaves and glossy green foliage. This type of ficus grows to be only 2 meters tall. Like other ficus varieties, it requires minimal upkeep and thrives in dry conditions. Ficus Figaro is also salt-tolerant, making it a good choice for coastal areas. As you can see, there are many different types of ficus hedging trees to choose from! So whether you're looking for a large tree or a small shrub, you're sure to find the perfect plant for your garden. Care Tips Now that you know a little bit about the different types of ficus hedging trees, let's talk about care tips. Ficus trees are generally low-maintenance plants, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure they stay healthy and thrive. Here are some care tips to keep in mind: - Ficus trees need full sun to partial shade. They will not do - These plants prefer well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding sand or organic matter to improve drainage. - Ficus trees are drought tolerant and can withstand long periods without water. However, they will need to be watered more frequently during hot, dry periods. - Ficus trees should be fertilized two or three times per year with a balanced fertilizer. - These plants can be pruned at any time of year to maintain the desired shape and size. Propagation Instructions Ficus trees are easy to propagate from cuttings or air layering. To take a cutting, simply remove a stem from the parent plant and pot it in well-draining soil. Water regularly until roots have formed and the plant is established. Air layering is a bit more complicated but can also be done at home. For this method, you will need to remove a section of bark from the stem of the parent plant and pot it in moist, well-draining soil. Water regularly until roots have formed and the plant is established. Are Ficus Roots Invasive? One of the most common questions gardeners have about ficus trees is whether or not their roots are invasive. The answer is yes, ficus roots can be invasive if they are not properly maintained. If you live in an area with sandy soil, consider planting your ficus tree in a container to prevent its roots from spreading. Otherwise, make sure to prune the roots or branches regularly to keep them from getting out of control. How often do I need to prune my ficus? Ficus trees can be pruned at any time of year to maintain the desired shape and size. However, they generally only need to be pruned once or twice a year. In general, you want to prune your ficus every spring before new growth begins. You may also want to prune your tree in late fall or early winter when it's dormant. Pruning helps promote strong branch development and prevents the formation of suckers. What is the best way to prune my ficuses? There are several ways to prune your ficuses. Some people like to use hand shears while others prefer pruners. Whichever tool you decide on, remember to always wear gloves when trimming your ficus tree. Also, be careful not to over prune your ficus as this could damage your tree. Always consult with us or a landscaper before making any major changes. Watering Your Ficus Trees As we mentioned earlier, ficus trees are drought tolerant and can withstand long periods without water. However, they will need to be watered more frequently during hot, dry periods. When watering your ficus tree, make sure to soak the roots well and then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important not to overwater these plants. Ficus for hedging and privacy If you want to create a beautiful hedge or privacy screen, then ficus trees are a great option. Not only do these plants provide a nice backdrop for your landscape, but they also offer privacy and protection against wind and rain. You can use them as a single specimen or combine several together to form a larger hedge. Ficus varieties should be planted 1 - 1.5 meters apart. As mentioned earlier, ficus trees grow quickly and can reach heights of up to 30 meters. This makes them ideal for creating a dense hedge or screening around your property. How Long Does It Take to Grow a Ficus Tree? The growth rate of ficus trees varies depending on the variety. Some species can reach heights of over 30 meters in just one season while others may require multiple seasons to reach maturity. Generally speaking, ficus trees grow faster than other deciduous trees such as maple and oak. As a result, they are often used as a fast-growing alternative to evergreens like cedar. The life span of a ficus tree depends on many factors including climate, soil type, and growing conditions. In general, ficus trees can live for 100 years or more. While they typically don't produce flowers, some varieties can bloom once every few decades. As you can see, there's a lot to know about caring for a ficus tree! But with proper care, these trees can be a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to your landscape. So if you're looking for a versatile plant that is easy to care for, consider planting a ficus tree in your garden. View our ficus variety here Other hedging trees options here
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A Beginner's Guide to Crepe Myrtle Trees: Everything You Need to Know
Common Name: Crepe Myrtle Botanical Name: Lagerstroemia Indica Crepe myrtle trees are not just beautiful additions to your landscape; they're also remarkably easy to grow and care for. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about crepe myrtles. We'll cover their appearance, characteristics, and the wide range of varieties available. You'll also discover how to successfully plant and cultivate your own crepe myrtle, along with essential care tips. We'll even touch on common diseases and pests that might affect your crepe myrtles and provide valuable insights into propagation. So, if you're intrigued by these lovely trees, keep reading! Appearance and Characteristics of Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia Indica) Size: Crepe myrtles typically reach heights of 3.6 meters and spreads of 2-2.4 meters. Leaves: Their dark green leaves boast 5-7 lobes. Flower Colors: Crepe myrtles dazzle with vibrant blossoms available in white, pink, purple, yellow, orange, red, cream, maroon, and brown. Fruit: These trees produce roundish fruits, about 1 cm in size, filled with numerous seeds. Varieties: Explore a broad selection of crepe myrtle varieties at Evergreen Trees Direct. How to Grow and Care for Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia Indica) Climate: Thriving in various climates, crepe myrtles flourish in full sun with well-draining soil. Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain their shape. Hardiness: Crepe myrtles can survive temperatures as cold as -23°C. Pests: While hardy, they may attract ants. Planting Tips for Crepe Myrtle Hole Depth: Dig a hole twice as deep as the root ball. Soil Preparation: Enrich the hole with compost, firmly tamping it down. Planting: Place the root ball in the hole and fill around the roots with additional compost. Watering: Thoroughly water the area before planting your crepe myrtle. Peat Moss: Add peat moss two weeks after planting to prevent root dehydration. Fertilization: Apply fertilizer every three weeks until the first frost, then monthly. Watering Your Crepe Myrtle Regular watering during hot weather is essential, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Drought Tolerance: Once established, crepe myrtles exhibit impressive drought tolerance. How to Prune Crepe Myrtle Pruning maintains the health and appearance of your crepe myrtle. Branch Removal: Trim unnecessary branches, deadwood, damaged limbs, and suckers sprouting from the trunk. Size Control: Clip back branches that extend above the rest of the tree to encourage new growth. Form Shaping: Prune crepe myrtles into desired shapes, such as hedges or topiaries. Diseases and Pests with Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia Indica) Crepe myrtle is susceptible to various diseases, including anthracnose, black rot, bacterial wilt, bud blight, leaf scorch, powdery mildew, rust, and verticillium wilt. In Australia, crepe myrtles are primarily at risk from verticillium wilt. If you encounter any disease-related concerns, please don't hesitate to [contact us](link to your contact page) at Evergreen Trees Direct. We trust that you'll find this blog post highly informative. Crepe myrtles are not only low-maintenance and easy to care for but also provide numerous benefits. They infuse vibrant color into your garden and are even more captivating when seen up close. Explore our comprehensive selection of crepe myrtle varieties at Evergreen Trees Direct and transform your landscape. Varieties We Offer: Crepe Myrtle 'Natchez' Crepe Myrtle 'Sioux' Crepe Myrtle 'Tuscarora' Feel free to explore our complete range here to find the perfect crepe myrtle for your garden.
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Ornamental Pear Tree Care: Tips on Growing a Beautiful Tree
Ornamental Pear Trees are fast-growing, deciduous landscape trees used across Australian gardens for structured planting, screening, shade, and seasonal colour. This guide compares top-performing varieties including Manchurian, Capital, Cleveland Select, and Pyrus nivalis (Snow Pear), each suited to specific applications—narrow spaces, wide canopy shade, symmetrical avenues, or cool-climate performance. Includes practical guidance on watering, pruning, soil requirements, root behaviour, disease resistance, and fertiliser use. Learn how to select the right ornamental pear based on form, height, foliage, and site constraints. Ideal for boundary planting, driveways, feature planting, and informal hedging. All varieties covered are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant once established, and suited to full sun sites with well-draining soil. Written for gardeners, landscapers, and property owners looking to make an informed decision about reliable deciduous tree options.
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Magnolia Little Gem vs Teddy Bear Magnolia
If you're in the market for a magnolia tree, it can be tough to choose between the Magnolia Little Gem and Teddy Bear Magnolia. While they have some similarities, they also have some differences that can impact your decision. One of the main differences is their size, with the Magnolia Little Gem reaching a maximum height of around 6 meters at maturity and the Teddy Bear Magnolia growing up to 10 meters tall. The flowers of both trees are beautiful and fragrant, but Teddy Bear Magnolia's flowers are slightly larger and more cup-shaped compared to the star-shaped flowers of Magnolia Little Gem. The growth rate is also a factor to consider, with the Magnolia Little Gem having a moderate growth rate of around 30cm per year and reaching its mature height in about 20 years, while Teddy Bear Magnolia has a slower growth rate of around 15cm per year and can take up to 50 years to reach its full height. Ultimately, both trees are beautiful and provide years of enjoyment, but it comes down to personal preference and the needs of your garden or landscape.
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How To Grow And Care For Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstroemia Indica) - Evergreen Trees Direct
Crepe Myrtles are reliable, deciduous flowering trees ideal for small to medium gardens. Learn how to choose the right variety and maintain it for strong flowering and form.
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Everything You Need to Know About Canary Island Date Palm
Everything You Need to Know About Canary Island Date Palm (Phoenix canariensis) Canary Island Date Palm (Phoenix canariensis) is a majestic tree that is a popular choice for landscaping and garden design. In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about Canary Island Date Palms. Origin and Naming Canary Island date palms are native to the Canary Islands, which are located off the coast of Africa. The tree gets its name from the Canary Islands, where it is thought to have originated. Date palms have been grown in the Canary Islands for centuries and were introduced to other parts of Europe and North America in the 1800s. Canary Island date palms are also known as Phoenix canariensis or Canary Island palm trees. They are a species of palm tree that is related to the common date palm (Phoenix dactylifera). Date palms are believed to be one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world and have been grown for their fruit, which is used in many different culinary dishes. Appearance and Size The Canary Island date palm is a popular choice for landscaping and garden design due to its impressive size and striking appearance. The tree has a single trunk that can grow up to 18 meters tall with a crown of large, feather-like leaves. Canary Island date palms are also known for their beautiful white flowers, which bloom in the springtime. Growth and Hardiness One of the most common questions about Canary Island date palms is whether or not they are fast-growing and hardy. The answer to both of these questions is yes! Canary Island date palms are fast-growing and can grow up to 60 centimeters per year. However, it should be noted that the speed of growth will vary depending on the conditions in which the tree is grown (such as soil type, temperature, etc.). Canary Island date palms are also very hardy and can survive in a variety of different climates. They are drought-tolerant and can withstand cold weather conditions, making them ideal for growing in many different parts of the world. Root System and Lifespan Another common question about Canary Island date palms is whether or not they have invasive roots and how long they live. The answer to the first question is no, Canary Island date palm roots are not considered to be invasive. However, it is important to note that the roots of the tree can grow up to 4.5 meters long, so it is important to be aware of this when planting the tree in your landscape. Canary Island date palms have a lifespan of 20-30 years, although they can live for longer if they are well cared for. The average height of a Canary Island date palm is 9-12 meters, but some trees have been known to reach heights of up to 18 meters tall! Price Range One final question that we will address is how much a Canary Island date palm costs. The price of a Canary Island date palm will vary depending on the size and age of the tree. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000 AUD for a Canary Island date palm. View our range here Regards, the Evergreen Tree Direct team.
Learn moreAbout your Brachychiton Red 'Bella Donna' Tree
Looking for a beautiful tree to add to your garden? Look no further than the Brachychiton Jerilderie RedBella Donna Tree! This stunning tree can grow up to 25 metres high, and is perfect for adding height and interest to any garden. It is a hybrid of the Brachychiton populneus and Acerifolius species, and is available in a range of different colours including red, pink and white. The Brachychiton Jerilderie Red Bella Donna Tree is a deciduous tree, meaning it will lose its leaves in winter. However, it is a low-maintenance tree that is easy to care for, making it the perfect addition to any garden. When planting, be sure to choose a sunny spot in your garden as this tree prefers full sun. It is also drought tolerant, so it will be able to withstand periods of dry weather. So if you're looking for a stunning and easy-to-care-for tree for your garden, the Brachychiton Jerilderie RedBella Donna Tree is the perfect choice! Do you have a Brachychiton Jerilderie RedBella Donna Tree in your garden? Let us know in the comments below!
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Indoor Plants: Why They’re Good for Your Health and the Air
The surprising health benefits of indoor plants for your health! Indoor plants are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they can also have a positive effect on your health. Here are some of the ways indoor plants can improve your well-being: 1. Indoor plants can help purify the air. 2. Indoor plants can help reduce stress and anxiety levels. 3. Indoor plants can boost your mood, concentration and productivity. 4. Indoor plants can help you sleep better. 5. Indoor plants can support your immune system. There’s no denying it – indoor plants make any living space look and feel better. But what you may not know is that they also have some impressive health benefits! Plants improve air quality, help reduce stress levels, and even boost productivity. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the many reasons why indoor plants are good for your health and the air. We will also provide a list of some of the best indoor plants with health benefits. 1. Improve Air Quality Indoor plants improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They also help to remove indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air. In fact, indoor plants have been shown to improve indoor air quality by up to 60%. 2. Reduce Stress Levels Plants can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation in a number of ways. First, they can help us to focus on something other than our stressors. Looking at plants for just two minutes can significantly reduce stress levels, according to one study. Plants can also help to improve our mood and increase feelings of well-being. In one experiment, participants who were exposed to plants showed lower levels of anxiety and depression than those who were not exposed to plants. Plants can also help to reduce noise levels and improve air quality, both of which can contribute to a sense of calm and relaxation. Finally, interacting with plants can help to reduce muscle tension and increase blood flow, both of which are beneficial for relaxation. 3. Improve Productivity Plants are not only aesthetically pleasing but they also have several benefits that can be harnessed to increase productivity in the workplace. One study found that workers with access to plants were 15% more productive than those without plants. Plants help to improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, and they also help to reduce noise levels. In addition, Plants can help to boost concentration and focus by providing a visual cue to break up the monotony of a task. By adding a few plants to your workspace, you can create a more productive and enjoyable environment. 4. Improve Sleep Indoor plants have many benefits that can help improve sleep quality. One of the most well-known benefits is their ability to help lower heart rate and blood pressure. This can create a more relaxed environment that is conducive to falling asleep. Additionally, indoor plants can help improve air quality by filtering out toxins and pollutants, which can also lead to better sleep. Finally, having indoor plants in the bedroom can simply create a more calming and comfortable space, helping you to wind down before bed and get a good night’s rest. 5. Improve Immune system and mental health Indoor plants can do more than just add a touch of greenery to your home – they can also support your immune system. Studies have shown that indoor plants can remove indoor air pollution, including harmful chemicals and toxins. In addition, indoor plants can help to improve mental health. One study found that indoor plants can reduce stress and fatigue, and improve concentration and self-esteem. So if you’re looking for ways to boost your health, adding some indoor plants to your home is a great place to start. So, what are some of the best indoor plants with health benefits? Here is a list of our top picks: 1. Aloe vera Aloe vera is a popular succulent plant that is often used for its medicinal properties. The gel inside the leaves can be applied topically to heal burns and wounds, and Aloe vera juice is commonly consumed as a health tonic. Aloe vera plants are also believed to purify the air and improve indoor air quality. While Aloe vera plants are relatively low maintenance, they do require some basic care in order to thrive. 2. Alocasia Alocasia plants are known for their ability to purify the air and improve indoor air quality. They are also low-maintenance, making them ideal houseplants. In addition to these benefits, alocasia plants offer a number of health benefits. Alocasia plants contain high levels of antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells from damage and reduce your risk of diseases such as cancer. Antioxidants are also believed to help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. 3. Peace lily Peace lilies are beautiful flowering plants that can help to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. They are also effective at filtering indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. 4. Philodendron Philodendrons are one of the most popular houseplants for a reason: they're not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also offer a number of benefits for your health. Philodendrons are known for their ability to purify the air by absorbing harmful toxins, and they can also boost your mood and improve your mental well-being. Plus, philodendrons are low maintenance and easy to care for, making them the perfect plant for busy people. If you're looking for a way to improve your health and wellness, consider adding a philodendron to your home. 5. Snake Plant Snake plants are known to be very efficient at improving the quality of indoor air. They are often used in offices and homes to help purify the air and remove toxins. Studies have shown that snake plants can remove up to 87% of toxins from the air within 24 hours! Some of the toxins that snake plants can help remove include: formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene. These are all chemicals that can be found in cleaning products, paint fumes, and other common household items. By removing these toxins from the air, snake plants can help improve your overall health and well-being. 6. Spider Plant Spider plants are known to remove toxins from the air, including formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. They can also help to purify the air in your home and improve your respiratory health. Spider plants are also thought to boost your mood and reduce stress levels. Spider plants have many benefits that include: - reducing stress - improving air quality - boosting moods - relieving anxiety - promoting sleep We hope this blog post has inspired you to add some indoor plants to your home! Not only do they look great, but they also have many health benefits that will improve.
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Jacarandas: Planting, Watering, and Maintenance Tips
Jacaranda mimosifolia is a fast-growing, deciduous tree known for its wide canopy and vivid violet-blue flowers in late spring. Best suited to frost-free regions. Performs well in large gardens where filtered shade and seasonal colour are key requirements. Key Specs Mature Height: 10–12 m Mature Width: 6–8 m Form: Broad-spreading, semi-deciduous Growth Rate: Moderate to fast Shade: Light-filtered, ideal over lawn Maintenance Level: Moderate Flowering: Late spring (Oct–Nov), lasts 6–8 weeks Suitability: Not frost-hardy. Avoid in cold or exposed areas. Planting Guidelines Space: Requires minimum 6 m clearance from buildings or other trees. Roots are not invasive but canopy spread must be considered. Light: Requires full sun. Will not flower properly in part shade. Soil: Needs well-drained soil. Poor performance in heavy clay or water-retentive conditions. Wind: Tolerates some exposure but can drop limbs if not structurally pruned early. Stake when young. Compared to Gleditsia or Tristaniopsis, Jacaranda offers stronger flower colour but needs more space and is less structured in form. Watering Deep water once per week during establishment (first 12–24 months). Reduce to fortnightly or rain-dependent once mature. Surface watering is ineffective — deep watering promotes stronger root development. Maintenance Pruning: Annual formative pruning in spring or early summer is essential. Remove weak limbs and manage canopy shape while young. Flower Drop: Heavy petal drop is normal. Avoid planting over driveways or tiled surfaces unless this is a feature, not a flaw. Seed Pods: Develop after flowering. Large, woody, and disc-shaped. Harmless but may require seasonal clean-up if tree is in a high-traffic area. FAQs Do Jacarandas drop flowers?Yes. Flower drop is heavy during bloom and is a defining seasonal feature. When do Jacarandas bloom in Australia?Typically between late October and early December, depending on region and rainfall. How long do they bloom for?Usually 6 to 8 weeks, occasionally longer in warmer climates. What do the seed pods look like?Hard, round, woody pods — roughly 5–7 cm in diameter. Turn brown or black as they mature. Is It the Right Tree for Your Garden? Choose Jacaranda if: You want a high-impact seasonal feature tree. You have room for a wide, spreading canopy. You live in a frost-free area. You’re willing to manage seasonal clean-up. Consider alternatives like Gleditsia ‘Shademaster’ for filtered shade with lower maintenance or Tristaniopsis laurina for compact, year-round foliage and structure with minimal drop. Order Jacaranda Trees Direct from Our Nursery We stock Jacaranda mimosifolia in a range of advanced sizes. Grown on-site and available for delivery across Victoria and interstate. Browse availability now at www.evergreentrees.com.au
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