Question From:
Dianne in Nhill, Nhill Victoria
Nature of problem:
I have read your article on Dwarf Oleanders. I am growing a hedge of them and I would like to know how and when to prune them to keep them in a bushy shape. Dome branches are growing higher than others.
Type of Plant (if known):
Dwarf Oleander apricot/pink. They are about four years old, growing well and are healthy but I wish to get them to be bushier and similar heights.
Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself):
Not ill. They are very healthy.
Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type:
Loam
How often do you water the plant:
A good soaking once a week during summer and tapering off now it is cooler and we have had a little rain.
How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
All day
How long since you planted it:
About four years
Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
Native fertiliser
Is the plant indoors or outdoors:
Outdoors
Is the plant in a pot or in the ground:
In the ground
What other treatments have you given the plant:
They have been watered regularly during summer and tapering off now we have had a little rain
Upload photo if available:
Other Comments:
Although my plants are not ill and are growing well I hope you can help me with how and when to prune them. Also can I take cuttings to grow from the prunings?
Nhill is a country town in the Wimmera Region in North Western Victoria.
Answer:
Hi Dianne, Oleanders are best pruned in Winter. One major pruning is done every third year and a lighter pruning to tidy the plants up is done in between. The major pruning can be quite severe; cut down to half of its height if you wish. Strike 8-10cm long cuttings now and strike them in a sand/peat mix. Put 10 cuttings in a 20cm diameter pot and place all of this in a clear plastic bag after watering them in. Place the bag in a semi shaded position and roots should grow over Winter. Don