Small tree for screening warm climate

Hello,

        We are located in Wembley, Perth ,Western Australia.  We don't get much rain and we don't get frosts.  The soil is sandy, in summer it is hot and dry.   In winter the area is damp and doesn't get much sun, it is along a fence line.   We are looking to plant a small tree for screening with a height of around 3.5mtrs, the tree would also not grow to wide as the garden is only 1mtr wide.  Could you give us some idea regards soil preparation also please. Gaylene, Wembley, Perth

 Hello Gaylene,

                          This sounds like a difficult spot.   I will suggest a number of small trees that would be good for an area such as you describe.   I think you may have to look at using a deciduous tree (drops leaf in winter) , the reason I say this, is due to the fact that the spot does not get sun in winter and is damp.   1.   Manchuria Pear Tree .   2.   Prunus x blireana  3. Hibiscus syriacus (rose of sharon) .

If you would like an evergreen plant to around 3.5 mtrs, you may like to us an advanced Camellia sasanqua .   It would need good watering in the first summer to get established.   I would like to suggest a Magnolia Little Gem, as they are very popular at present, but it may suffer in winter in the area you describe, as they need sun in winter.   In regard to soil improvement.   Mix through some peat or some sheep manure into the sand when planting.  Dig a large hole, so you can get a good amount of improved soil around the roots.   Also, you will have to use some granular wetting agents in the hole and around the plant after planting.    Continue the use of wetting agents every summer it will help develop good roots.    Don't forget to water regularly in summer. 

Regards questions@gardenguide.com.au

 

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