Here are some general guidelines for looking after your pot plants and topiary. You can grow almost any plant in a container – but they do need regular care to thrive.

 

 

Pots:

 

• Select good sized pots for your plants to live in. The rule of thumb is the size of the plant = size of the root ball or pot. So if you have a ball that is 50cm round, select a pot that is approx 50cm3.

 

 

Potting Mix:

 

• Use a good quality potting mix that contains a slow release fertiliser eg Nutricote. The fertiliser will last 6-9 months, after which you will need to remember to add your own. 

• The soil structure itself should last several years. Every few years, it is also a good idea to root trim your plant, and refresh your potting mix at the same time; or pot up your plant as it grows, into a bigger pot if you want to increase the size of your plant.

 

 

Food:

 

• Apply a high quality topdressing fertiliser 2-3 times a year in August, November & February eg Triabon, Osmoform, or Nitrophoska. Nitrophoska is sold widely in garden centres, and is a great fertiliser for plants in pots - but remember to follow the quantity applications carefully, so you don't burn your plants. We use and sell Triabon, which is much harder to get hold of. 

 

 

Water:

 

• Water thoroughly - one bucket of water/plant every 3 days through summer, windy and dry spells. This will make a tremendous difference to your plants.

• Water once a week through winter if your plants are under roof eaves or on a verandah.

• Move plants into a sheltered shaded spot when you go on holiday

 

 

Other Maintenance:

 

• Choose plants that are suitable for your situation, and a disease resistant variety.

• Weed regularly – don’t let weeds flower & go to seed. Make sure you pull out their roots.

• Generally spray when you see persistant signs of insects or damage. Roses are the exception, and we recommend you follow a regular, preventative spraying regime.

• Prune first to remove dead, diseased or insect damaged foliage; then to improve flowering/fruiting, then structure, and shape.