Red tip photinias grow rather quickly. They can grow up to three metres in height and width.
How far apart to plant Photinia for a hedge?
For hedging, plant photinias out 60–80cm apart—the closer together they are, the quicker they will fill the gaps to create the hedge. Allow them to grow for a full season before you start trimming them back to create a typical hedge shape.
How do you keep Photinia bushy?
Prune once or twice annuallyto keep your Photinia tidy and to maintain its desired size. It's no slouch! More regular pruning will encourage new – stunningly red – growth.
What fertiliser for Photinia?
Fertilise at least once a year with some slow-release fertiliser, and some good chunky mulch around the base of the plants will also help to ensure good moisture and nutrient levels in the soil. Leave a space between the mulch and the plant stem to avoid encouraging rot. Mulching with pine bark is discouraged because it can lower nitrogen levels in the soil.
Photinia have quite low watering requirements and their drought tolerance allows them to thrive in most parts of Australia from South Queensland and Western Australia down to Tasmania.
What Problems Should I Look Out For?
Too much moisture is the bane of the Photinia. Photinia can be susceptible to fungal attacks.
Growing tips for Photinias
Plant your Photinias between 60 and 100 cm apart for a solid hedge. Photinia does prefer full sun but part shade is fine too.
If your site is more on the shady side try to ensure that there is good air movement.
This is because Photinia can be prone to fungal attack if there is too much moisture around.
In shadier spots it would be wise to plant your Photinias a little further apart to give your plants a little more space and make the area less conducive to fungal growth.
Photinias need very little watering once established.