12-03-2009, 12:21 PM
Trees are often staked too high up and for too long. The main thing to do is to stake a newly planted tree firm enough to stop the rootball from moving. Unless the tree is subject to very severe wind then it is best to allow the stem to move naturally and that helps the tree to cope as it gets bigger.
On the subject of chopping eucalytus, I have had one in a large pot which was about 9' high waiting to find the right place in the garden to plant it. Unfortunately last winter it was moved to a new area and I forgot about it. This meant it was not watered and by June when I rediscovered it all the leaves had turned brown and it looked very sad. I chopped the stem to about 6" high, brought it to a place where it wouldn't be forgotten again, fed it and kept it watered. Five months later there are five new stems about 2' long each covered in good healthy leaves. Coppicing works very well for some trees like willow and it would appear that eucalyptus responds to it as well. I promise that I will now find a place for it.
Paul
On the subject of chopping eucalytus, I have had one in a large pot which was about 9' high waiting to find the right place in the garden to plant it. Unfortunately last winter it was moved to a new area and I forgot about it. This meant it was not watered and by June when I rediscovered it all the leaves had turned brown and it looked very sad. I chopped the stem to about 6" high, brought it to a place where it wouldn't be forgotten again, fed it and kept it watered. Five months later there are five new stems about 2' long each covered in good healthy leaves. Coppicing works very well for some trees like willow and it would appear that eucalyptus responds to it as well. I promise that I will now find a place for it.
Paul