Eucalyptus grow with a clear central leading branch that grows upwards ahead of the other branches. It is important not to cut this central leader, as this could spoil the final shape of the tree. Use a clean and sharp pair of pruning shears or, for larger branches, a hand saw. Remove all side branches from the lower third, shorten the side branches on the middle section by half, and leave the side-shoots in the top third intact. Repeat these steps every year for the first three years as the plant grows. In years four and five, clear the trunk of side branches to the height desired. With larger-growing species, plant them well away from buildings, as they can dry out the soil, especially heavy clay. See our guide to trees near buildings. To explore the range of species, go to RHS Plants. Search for 'eucalyptus' to browse the photos and plant descriptions, and find out where to buy them. How and what to buy

Like this article? Sign up to our newsletter to get more articles like this delivered straight to your inbox. If planting seeds, use root trainers to establish them initially, before transplanting them into their final position no later than midsummer. It will, however, flower for a shorter period of time once a year, which varies according to species.These techniques are best done very early in the growing season when the first shoots are appearing and the long-range weather forecast says we aren’t going to get a return to winter. Treat the pruning cuts with wound paint to prevent fungal disease.

This ensures the developing rootsdon't have to compete for moisture ornutrients with other plants. It is particularly important with trees growing in lawns, as the dense grass would absorb much of the rainfall. Remove completely the side shoots that were shortened by half in year one (which should be now be in the lower third of the tree) Cut the main stem of a two-year-old tree straight across at the desired height, cutting as low as 8cm (3in) from ground level if required. Trim the wound so that there are no rough edges Wherever you decide to position them, think carefully about the location before doing so as they don’t take kindly to being uprooted. How To Plant Its foliage begins life rounded and bluish, before developing a thinner and greyer form as it grows.

In cold regions, give the root zone a ‘root duvet’­– a 4in (12cm) deep mulch of bark chippings or organic straw to protect the roots from freezing over winter. When applying, be sure to keep the mulch away from the trunk. Supports are to be actively discouraged, since cultivating eucalyptus without the aid of them will instigate stronger root growth. Eucalyptus Tree Care

Speaking about the environmental impacts of making leaf mould, Guy Barter, Chief Horticulturist at the RHS explains: 'Leaves often vex gardeners so no wonder two out of five consign them to the green waste bin, but leaves make the finest soil improver as leaf mould. Making leaf mould helps the environment by eliminating the cost and carbon emissions associated with green waste collection. With plants growing in containers, move them to a sheltered spotover winter, such as against a south- or west-facing wallwhere it's a little warmer and it will prevent waterlogging by sheltering the plant from the worst of the rain. Just make sure you use a pot that’s large enough to accommodate its roots, which means one with a diameter of 60cm or more. How Much Light Does A Potted Eucalyptus Plant Need? Theyare evergreen trees or shrubs, mainly from Australia. There are many species, of various sizes, to suit most situations. They usually form elegant specimens that work well as focal points.However, there are certain species, such as E. coccifera (or the Tasmanian snow gum) which prefer planting later in the year in September, October and November. Similarly, you might wish to prune larger species to prevent them from becoming too big for their environs. Let’s dive in and explore the 5 most popular autumnal eucalyptus varieties in the UK so the next time you’re browsing through Dried Flowers and Decor you can tell your Cinerea from your Parvifoglia. This method is particularly suitable for two-year-old trees of Eucalyptus gunnii, E. globulus, E. dalrympleana and E. pauciflora, as it shows off their attractive, rounded juvenile foliage. Year one

The optimum time to plant a eucalyptus is spring through to midsummer, so it has plenty of time to get established before the winter. If you need to plant in summer, ensure you keep on top of watering, particularly if there are prolonged periods of drought. Capable of growing up to 15m in height and around half of that in spread, E. dalrympleana (or the mountain gum tree, as it is more commonly known) is a fast-growing evergreen tree. Eucalyptusbark can be highly ornamental, in shades of grey, brown, green, pink and white. In some species it forms amulti-coloured mosaic,as the outer layer peels off in patches or strips to reveal new hues underneath. Bear in mind the potential height and spread of the species you possess, planting the root ball at an appropriate distance from other plants or buildings to allow for their development.Pollarding removes a lot of energy so you need to feed and water the tree well afterward, otherwise there’s a risk it will become exhausted and die. Most varieties of eucalyptus are fairly easy to grow, whether you choose to plant them indoors or outdoors. It’s instantly recognisable by its grey-white bark which flakes away freely, as well as its drooping, narrow, grey-green leaves. It can grow up to 25m in height and 10m in spread, with its peeling cream and brown bark a common sight around the UK.