thicken up lilly pilly hedge
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How to Thicken a Lilly Pilly Hedge
Lilly Pilly hedges are naturally fast-growing, but without the right care they can become thin, patchy, or sparse at the base. This often happens when hedges are planted too far apart, pruned incorrectly, or not fertilised regularly. The good news is, with proper care, a sparse Lilly Pilly can be turned into a dense and healthy privacy screen.
Common Causes of Thin Growth
- Infrequent pruning, leading to tall, leggy growth.
- Lack of fertiliser, causing slow growth and pale foliage.
- Insufficient sunlight, especially at the hedge base.
- Poor watering habits, either too little or too much.
Best Methods to Encourage Dense Growth
To thicken a Lilly Pilly hedge, consistency is key. Follow these steps to get lush, even growth from top to base:
1. Prune Regularly
- Prune lightly every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer.
- Trim hedge sides so they are slightly narrower at the top, allowing sunlight to reach the lower branches.
- Perform a harder prune in early spring if the hedge has become woody or sparse.
2. Fertilise Consistently
Feed with CompleteGrow All Purpose NPK 20-20-20 to promote vigorous regrowth after pruning. Apply every 6–8 weeks in-ground, or every 2–4 weeks for potted hedges. Fertilise immediately after trimming for the best results.
3. Water Deeply
- Water new hedges 2–3 times per week to establish roots.
- For mature hedges, water weekly in summer, ensuring moisture reaches deep roots.
- Mulch around the base to lock in water and improve soil quality.
4. Improve Light Access
- Thin nearby trees or plants that cast heavy shade.
- Prune hedge tops slightly lower to allow sunlight to penetrate the base.
FAQs on Thickening Lilly Pilly Hedges
Q: How long does it take to thicken a Lilly Pilly hedge?
A: With regular pruning and feeding, you should see noticeable improvement within one growing season.
Q: Can I cut my Lilly Pilly hedge back hard?
A: Yes. In early spring, you can prune by up to one-third. Follow with fertiliser and watering for strong regrowth.
Q: My hedge is thin at the base – what can I do?
A: Trim the top narrower than the base so sunlight reaches lower branches, and fertilise regularly to encourage new shoots.
Q: Does fertiliser make Lilly Pilly hedges bushier?
A: Yes. Feeding with CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 encourages dense branching and healthy foliage.
Q: Will more sunlight help my hedge thicken?
A: Absolutely. Lilly Pilly grows fastest and densest in full sun. If shaded, trim surrounding plants to improve light access.
Final Tip
Thickening a Lilly Pilly hedge comes down to pruning, feeding, and consistent care. With CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 and regular maintenance, even a thin hedge can become a dense, vibrant privacy screen in just a few seasons.
More Hedge Guides from CompleteGrow
- Best Fertiliser for Lilly Pilly Hedges
- How to Grow Lilly Pilly Hedges in Australia
- When to Prune Lilly Pilly Hedges
- How Fast Does Lilly Pilly Grow?
- How Tall Do Lilly Pillies Grow?
- Why Are My Lilly Pilly Leaves Turning Brown?
- How to Grow Lilly Pilly from Cuttings
- Do Lilly Pilly Have Invasive Roots?
- How to Prune Lilly Pilly
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