Trim
new growth with sharp shears regularly to maintain shape of plant. Once
monthly is normally sufficient. It is important the growth is kept under
control and the plant is not allowed to grow out of shape. If this does
happen, trim little & regularly to restore.
Remove any unwanted growth on clear stems using secateurs.
Try not to allow snow
to settle on the plant in the winter. The added weight on the plant may
cause misshaping. Don’t trim when frost is due. Brush out brown
& dead foliage with your hand or shake the plant. This will encourage
new growth to appear.
Check for aphids
in the growing season (they leave a black sooty substance on the plant)
and spray at the first sign of infestation. Aphids can cause rapid damage
to Cupressus, & the plant can take several seasons to recover.
Water regularly;
- always try to keep growing medium moist, especially in the growing season,
and during the winter months. It is essential that the growing medium
is not allowed to dry out. If this happens, the plant will die and will
not recover. As a guide, during the growing season, a full can of water
every other day or third day will suffice, and during the dormant season,
October – March water twice weekly. Just remember that it is hard
to over water, so more is better than less!
Remember that all
living plants need food, and there isn’t much for the plant in tap
water. Fertilize monthly with a proprietary slow release or liquid fertilizer
during the growing season. Follow manufacturers application rates. The
best way to apply fertilizer though, is to dilute some into the water,
each time you water. |