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Phormiums , also known as New Zealand flax , arestriking architectural plantsthat add a speck ofexotic flairto any garden . However , to keep their vibrant foliage and overall wellness , regular pruning is essential . Thiscomprehensive guidewill cater you with step - by - stair instructions on how to prune phormium , ensuring a thriving and visually arresting display in your outdoor space .
Understanding Phormium Growth Habits
Before pruning , it ’s crucial tounderstand phormium‘sgrowth habits . These plants produce brand - shaped leafage that grow in a rosette formation . New leaves emerge from the center of the flora , whileolder leaves step by step deteriorateat the base .
When to Prune Phormium
The ideal sentence toprune phormiumis during the outflow or early summer , when the weather condition is mild and new growth is emerge . keep off pruning in the declination or wintertime , ascold temperaturescan stress the plant and make it susceptible to disease .
Step-by-Step Pruning Instructions
1 . Gather Your shaft : You ’ll needsharp pruning shearsor aserrated knife . Ensure they are uninfected to prevent the spread of disease.2 . distinguish Dead or Damaged Leaves : Begin by transfer any dead , damage , ordiseased leaf . These leave are often yellow , dark-brown , or deplumate . Cut them off at the root of the plant , where they meet the main stem.3 . lop Overgrown Leaves : If the phormium has become overgrown , you cantrim backtheouter leavesto reduce its sizing . Cut theseleaves backto a duration that complements the overall form of the plant.4 . Remove Flower Stalks : Phormiums produce tall flower stalksthat can detract from the foliation ’s beauty . Cut these still hunt back to the theme after they have finish flowering.5 . Thinning the Plant ( Optional ): If the phormium is too slow , you may lose weight it out by removing some of the intimate leaves . This willimprove air circulationand melt off the risk of disease .
Pruning for Specific Varieties
Different varieties of phormium havevarying growth habitsandpruning requirements . Here are some tips :
Pruning for Different Purposes
Aftercare
After pruning , irrigate your phormium deep to encourage new growth . Apply abalanced fertilizerto offer essential nutrients . Mulch around the base of operations of the plant toretain moistureand suppress weeds .
Takeaways: Maintaining a Thriving Phormium Garden
even pruning is of the essence for keep the health , looker , and vitality ofphormium plants . By adopt the steps sketch in this guide , you’re able to control yourphormiums thriveand add a touch of exotic elegance to your garden for long time to come .
Top Questions Asked
1 . How often should I prune my phormium?Prune yourphormium annuallyin the springtime or former summer.2 . What tools should I apply to prune phormium?Usesharp pruning shearsor a serrated knife.3 . Can Iprune phormiumin the fall or winter?Avoid pruning in the dusk or winter , ascold temperaturescan stress the plant.4 . How do I restore an old phormium?Cut all theleaves backto within a few inches of the land . The plant will get raw growth.5 . Can I use phormium to make a hedge?Yes , phormiums can be used to make alow hedgeor perimeter . crop them on a regular basis to hold their form and height .
