Pencil pines ( Cupressus sempervirens
‘Glauca’) are popular in Melbourne due to their elegant, upright growth and low maintenance needs. Here are some key care tips:
1. Planting
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Choose a sunny location
(at least 6 hours of direct sunlight).
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Ensure well-draining soil
to prevent root rot.
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Space them at least 1–1.5 meters apart
if planting multiple trees.
2. Watering
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Water regularly
when newly planted (1–2 times per week).
•
Once established, they are drought-tolerant
but benefit from occasional deep watering in hot, dry weather.
3. Soil & Fertilizing
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Prefer well-draining, loamy soil
but adapt to various soil types.
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Apply a slow-release fertilizer
(e.g., balanced NPK 10-10-10) in early spring and late summer for healthy growth.
4. Pruning & Maintenance
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Minimal pruning required— only remove dead or damaged branches.
•
If shaping is needed, lightly trim in late winter or early spring
before new growth appears.
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Avoid heavy pruning as they don’t regenerate well from old wood.
5. Pests & Diseases
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Generally hardy, but watch for cypress canker
, a fungal disease causing dieback.
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Prevent infections by ensuring good airflow
and avoiding overhead watering.
•
If affected, prune infected branches and apply a copper-based fungicide.
6. Mulching
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Apply organic mulch (e.g., bark, wood chips) around the base
to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
