Planting and Maintenance Notes

1. Prior to planting I recommend that you improve the soil in each planting hole. (The planting hole needs to be about 30cm deep and three times the width of the pot). To improve the soil that you've dug out, I'd recommend mixing one-third commercial soil improver (eg. Groganic) with two thirds of existing soil.
   
   
2. Before removing the plant from its pot give it a good drink, this will help reduce stress to the plant and also helps the soil stick around the roots. To remove the plant from it's pot hold palm of one hand on top of the pot with two fingers slotted around the stem to support the plant, turn plant upside down and gently tap the pot to loosen the plant. Never grip the plant by its stem alone. Unless a plant is very obviously root bound it isn't necessary to tease out the roots.
   
   
3. Should a plant require staking, place the stake adjacent to the root ball and drive it into the ground with a hammer. Tie the plant to the stake with a soft, flexible tie in a figure eight formation making allowance for [restricted] movement.
   
   
4. The soil may now be replaced around the plant (keeping the level of soil around the trunk the same as it was in the pot) and the plant watered thoroughly.
   
   
5. Cover all garden beds with 10cm mulch after planting, taking care to keep mulch clear of plant stems (to reduce risk of collar rot).
   
   
6. There is no need to place fertiliser in the planting hole unless using slow release granules or tablet (which can be placed 5cm below the root ball). Early spring is the best time to apply slow release fertiliser such as Osmocote as they are temperature controlled and will only be effective during warmer weather, which incidentally is when most plants are experiencing their growth phase.
   
   
7. The best planting seasons are autumn and early spring. Container plants however, can be planted any time of the year (providing they receive adequate water and are not planted on really hot days).
   
   
8. Ensure the plants are well watered for the first three or so weeks following planting. General watering requirements after this is 2 - 3 times per week in summer, less in winter (see water requirements sheet). Native Australian plants can survive without much water once they have experienced two/three summers of regular watering however they will always look much better if they receive a deep soak once a week/fortnight during warm weather.
   
   
9. Light pruning after flowering will promote a more bushy habit, reduced woodiness, increased vigour and more flowers.
   
   
10. Most importantly enjoy your garden and all its seasonal delights!