Why your native plants actually need a trim to thrive in your garden

Gardening · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Many gardeners assume native plants require zero intervention because they flourish in the wild. However, cultivated garden conditions are different. Pruning is essential for maintaining plant health, managing safety risks, and enhancing aesthetic form. With the right techniques, you can help your natives grow stronger and live longer.

While native plants are often perceived as maintenance-free, cultivation requires a more intentional approach. Chelsea Payne, curator for arboriculture at Kings Park Botanic Garden, emphasizes that pruning serves three primary functions: health, beauty, and risk management. By removing dead, diseased, or damaged wood, gardeners can prevent issues and encourage the plant to maintain its natural, desired form. Even for resilient species like waxflowers, gardeners can safely remove up to a third of the plant's growth without causing stress.

The secret to successful pruning lies in both the tools and the technique. Using clean, sharpened secateurs and high-quality handsaws is vital to ensure accurate cuts and minimize tearing. Hygiene is equally important; spraying tools with methylated spirits between plants prevents the transfer of diseases. When removing branches, the goal is to cut close to the node or branch collar, allowing the plant to naturally callus over. For larger branches, utilizing a three-point-cut method—starting with an underside cut to remove weight—prevents accidental damage to the trunk and ensures the tree can effectively seal the wound.

Understanding the biology of native species can transform how you garden. Many small eucalypts possess a lignotuber, a specialized group of cells that allows them to regenerate after damage or fire. This adaptation makes them excellent candidates for coppicing, a technique where the tree is cut back hard to stimulate vigorous new growth. Furthermore, long-term health often comes down to choosing the right plant for the right location. By selecting species that have room to grow and avoiding unnecessary intervention on young trees, you allow them to develop strong, thick stems that are naturally resistant to wobbling and breakage.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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