Syzygium australe - Lilly Pilly

Hedging & Screening: 1m spacing for dense hedge or up to 1.5m for more informal

Feature Tree: 2 – 4 meters

Avenue Planting: Not typically used as avenue planting

1. Choose the Right Location: Select a site that receives full sun to part shade. The more sun, the better the flowering and fruiting, but the plant can tolerate some shade.
2. Prepare the Soil: Syzygium australe prefers well-drained soil. If planting in an area with heavy clay or poor drainage, amend the soil with compost and a well-draining medium like sand or fine gravel to improve soil structure and drainage.
3. Digging the Hole: The hole should be twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball. This allows the roots to spread easily and establish quickly.
4. Planting: Remove the plant from its container and gently tease out the roots if they are densely packed. Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole, gently firming down the soil to eliminate air pockets.
5. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots and help reduce transplant shock. Provide regular watering during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system.
6. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plant to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to avoid moisture buildup that could cause decay.

• Watering: Once established, Syzygium australe is relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering during extended periods of dry weather. During the growing season, ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
• Pruning: Prune annually to maintain the desired shape and size. Regular pruning also encourages denser growth, which is ideal for hedging purposes. It is best to prune after the flowering period to promote new growth and flowering the next season.
• Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and enhance flowering and fruiting. Ensure the fertilizer is suitable for native Australian plants, as Syzygium australe can be sensitive to high phosphorus levels.
• Pest Management: Regularly inspect the plant for signs of psyllid damage. If pests are present, consider using a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap as a treatment. Choosing resistant cultivars like 'Resilience' can also help minimize issues.

Optimal Soil Conditions

• Rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.
• Ideal balance between moisture retention and drainage for healthy growth.

Sandy Soils

• Offer excellent drainage, crucial for root health.
• Mix in plenty of organic matter to improve nutrient and moisture retention.
• Increase watering frequency, as sandy soils dry out quickly.

Clay Soils

• Naturally nutrient-rich and moisture-retentive.
• Amend with gypsum and organic matter to improve drainage.
• Consider raised beds or mounded planting to enhance drainage.

Loamy Soils

• Ideal for Lilly Pillies, balancing moisture retention and drainage.
• Enhance annually with organic compost to maintain fertility.
• Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Chalky Soils

• Typically well-draining and may be alkaline.
• Enrich with organic matter to improve fertility and moisture retention.
• Add elemental sulfur if necessary to adjust soil pH to more suitable levels.
• May require more frequent irrigation due to quick drainage.

pH Preferences

• Prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.0).
• Test soil pH and adjust to enhance nutrient availability and plant health.

General Planting Tips

• Ensure soil is loose and friable to encourage root expansion.
• Incorporate slow-release fertilizer at planting for a healthy start.
• Regularly check soil moisture and pH, adjusting care as needed.