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NewLeaf Green Alternatives Guide and Directory
Tips & Hints 
- Each year a few more garden plants join the army of weeds, so it's wise to think twice about planting some easy-to-grow plants. These can take over a garden, and if spread, take over surrounding bushland, by spreading too far. Examples of these are: Arum Lilies , Forget-Me-Nots , Ivy , various Water Plants , Watsonias and Running Bamboo.
- Pruning is best done at the end of the flowering cycle. Cut back dead flowers to make way for the flush of regrowth that usually occurs after flowering. However, avoiding pruning a fruiting plant after it has flowered, as you will be pruning away its crop.
- Experiment with cuttings. After you have pruned a plant, try planting some of the cuttings in a good potting mix. Make sure there is a good clean cut on both ends of the cutting, dont leave any dead parts.
- Prune only when you have a reason to do so, dont jsut do it because you think you have to.
- Dont prune more than a third of the plant at one time. If it requires more, do it in stages.
- Dont hack away at a thicker stem with secateurs, as this may damage or kill the plant. You may have to use more heavy duty shears, or, ask an expert on the best method for pruning them.
- Avoid pruning on very hot or cold days, as you can burn the plant. Always give a generous dose of water & feed to a plant after pruning to encourage growth.
- If plants are outside, dont bother using a dish to catch water run off if possible. This can cause water logging, rot and a catchment area for disease. It is also a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Where possible, position the plant so that it can efficiently drain, maybe putting stilts under the pot.
- Mulch is the ultimate time & resource saver. By mulching your plants you cut down on watering time, weeding, plant food & you grow healthier plants.