
- What’s that smattering of gold appearing across the city and along the highways? Many wattle species are now coming into flower, and this native genus is a rich vein for planting design. Acacia offers shrubs in all sizes and shapes, for any position and soil, and are generally fast-growing, low maintenance plants with low water needs. For a low, mounding shrub with lovely textural foliage, Acacia ‘Honey Bun’ or any of the dwarf cultivars of Acacia cognata blend well into nearly any garden style. Taller shrubs vary from the elegant, airy Sydney Golden Wattle, to the robust, attention-seeking Acacia ‘Sterling Silver’, and the feathery Acacia fimbriata. Acacia binervia, Acacia melanoxylon and Acacia podalyriifolia make excellent shade or feature trees. Take note that some species can be invasive outside their natural range, such as the Cootamundra wattle, A. baileyana. Wattles require little maintenance, but some can be shaped into clipped forms if desired, like A. howitti, and in a garden setting, many will benefit from an occasional tip-prune to encourage density.
- It’s still cold, but the lengthening days are beginning to signal many plants that winter is nearing an end. August is a busy time for pruning and feeding, as many plants benefit from a prune in late winter, just ahead of the spring flush – it’s all about timing, especially for evergreens, and it’s best to minimise the time between a prune and the subsequent seasonal regrowth. Likewise, citrus and many other spring flowering plants will appreciate an application of organic fertiliser as they prepare to flower.
- Keep an eye out for slugs and snails – with all the recent wet weather, they will be out in force, attacking tender green plants like veggies and herbs, lily-like foliage, gingers and more. Although there are pellets and other measures available, the more integrated management approach for slugs and snails is to tidy up your yard – for example clearing up that distant corner stacked with old pots and other rubbish, anything that offers a hiding place – and making sure your garden is inviting for carnivorous birds.
OUTHOUSE offers in-person consultations with qualified horticulturalists to help you get the most value out of your landscape. We can provide verbal advice, planting plans or a full landscape design. Get in touch with us to discuss your needs.
View past tips for August here!