- Cordyline australis, also known as the cabbage tree or Torbay palm, is a hardy plant that can thrive outdoors in the UK. Here are some care instructions to keep your cordyline australis healthy:
-
Planting: Choose a sunny, sheltered location with well-draining soil. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
-
Watering: Cordyline australis can tolerate dry soil, but it's important to water the plant regularly during the first growing season to help establish its root system. Once established, the plant can tolerate some drought. Water deeply once or twice a week during dry periods.
-
Fertilizing: Cordyline australis does not require frequent fertilizing. You can fertilize once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer or a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10.
-
Pruning: Prune off any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves or stems as soon as possible. You can also remove any brown, lower leaves that may appear as the plant grows.
-
Winter care: Cordyline australis is a hardy plant that can tolerate frost and cold temperatures, but it may need some winter protection during severe weather conditions. You can wrap the plant with horticultural fleece or burlap to protect it from frost.
