Syringa meyeri 'Palibin'

Spring - late · Outdoors

Feed young plants with slow release fertiliser

Spread a slow release fertiliser around the base of the plant to the edge of the foliage spread, so that it can feed the roots. It is helpful for this to be applied for several years.

This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost until the plant becomes well established.

Spring-Autumn · Outdoors

Water during dry periods

For plants in the ground, when there has been little or no rain for a period of 7-10 days and the soil is dry, give it a deep watering and repeat weekly until there is a downpour of rain. Check plants in pots more frequently, especially in hot weather.

Spring-Autumn · Planting

Pinch out growing tips

On young plants pinch out foliage tips to encourage a pleasant and bushy growth habit.

Outdoor planting · Planting

Add root growth stimulant to the planting hole

Mycorrhizal fungi helps roots establish quickly, so they absorb water and nutrients more efficiently. It comes as a powder, granule or gel. Add to the planting hole or container, and to the plant's rootball before planting in the hole. For "bareroot" plants use a gel.

Hedges · Planting

Suitable for an informal hedge

If left to grow naturally this is a hedge that has an informal growth habit that gives it a natural, or some may say, 'untidy' look.

Hedges · Planting

Hedge clipping reduces flowers

If clipped for a hedge, there will be few flowers. The plant will only flower if left to grow freely. This may be acceptable if an informal hedge is required.