Pruning Native Trees and Shrubs for Plant Health
Australia’s native trees and shrubs are wonderfully adapted to our unique climate and soils, but even the hardiest species benefit from occasional pruning. Done correctly, pruning encourages healthy growth, improves the shape of your plants, and helps prevent pest and disease problems—especially in a home garden setting.
Why Prune Native Plants?
Native plants naturally grow in response to fire, wind, grazing, and other environmental factors. In the garden, pruning mimics these natural events, helping to:
Promote bushier, more compact growth.
Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
Improve airflow and sunlight penetration.
Encourage flowering and new growth.
Prevent plants from becoming woody or leggy.
When to Prune
The best time to prune most Australian natives is after flowering. This allows you to enjoy the blooms and gives the plant time to recover and set buds for the next season. Avoid heavy pruning in extreme heat or during drought conditions—plants need time to heal without added stress.
Some general timing tips:
Spring-flowering species: prune in early summer.
Summer-flowering species: prune in late summer to early autumn.
Light, regular tip pruning can be done throughout the growing season.
How to Prune
Use clean, sharp secateurs or loppers and always make cuts just above a node or bud:
Tip prune regularly to keep young plants bushy.
Light prune mature shrubs annually to maintain shape and encourage flowering.
Hard prune older or woody plants to rejuvenate them—but do this cautiously and only with species known to recover well.
Native plants that respond well to heavier pruning include Callistemon (Bottlebrush), Grevillea, and Westringia. More delicate species like Banksia or Eremophila prefer lighter trims.
Pruning for Health
Removing dead or diseased wood helps reduce fungal infections and insect problems. Always dispose of pruned material properly—don’t leave it around to harbour pests. If you're dealing with disease, sterilise tools between cuts to prevent spreading.
A Few Extra Tips
Avoid pruning during wet periods to minimise disease risk.
Mulch after pruning to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Use native-plant fertiliser if your plant needs a boost after a big prune.
Conclusion
Pruning your native trees and shrubs isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a crucial step in maintaining their long-term health and resilience. With the right timing and technique, you’ll be rewarded with thriving, vibrant plants that play their part in supporting Australia’s unique ecosystems.
