On 12/2/09 10:19, in article , "Jeff Layman"
wrote:

Pam Moore wrote:
I have an approx 3 year old eucalyptus which is about 12 feet tall on
one stem. I think I should cut it back to grow bushy. I've not grown
one before. It's by a 6 ft fence.
3 questions:
When should I cut it?
What height should I cut it back to? 4 feet? More or less?
If I leaveit will it just go on up or will it bush out?
TIA

Pam in Bristol

Depends what you want it for. The usual species grown in the UK have
different juvenile foliage from the adult foliage. The juvenile foliage is
said to be more attractive for flower arrangers, so the plant should be cut
regularly to promote the growth of new foliage if you want that. It doesn't
really matter when it is cut, as most Eucalyptus plants are rapid growers.

Remember not to let it get away, or you'll need a chainsaw before you know
it!

I had Eucalyptus piniana growing as a hedge and someone pinched out the tops
immediately on planting. It took them two or three years to recover!
Later, I asked Ray from whom I'd bought them which is how we met (aaaaah)
what one should do and he advised leaving them for a year to get their feet
down before doing anything to them. Mind you this particular pinching out
was more like taking a foot off the top of young plants!
--
Sacha
http://www.hillhousenursery.com
South Devon
Perennials & shrubs online