Can we plant Lilly Pilly Backyard Bliss between Myrtle trees?

Question

Is it possible to grow Lilly Pilly backyard bliss between Myrtle trees.The trees are 2.3m apart and width of the space is 1.11m.

Main goal is block out the neighbours but don't want to damage existing trees.

Thinking of leaving the crepe myrtles where they are and planting the Lilly Pillies between them, but slightly closer to the fence rather than in the same line. Hopefully that gives a bit more separation while still creating a privacy screen.

Noelle · Answer

Hi @Accomplished_B   I'm in complete agreement with Jacob and others - lillypillies between or offset with the crepe myrtles would not be the best solution to your privacy issue. A fence extension sounds a much better idea!

mich1972 · Answer

Good afternoon @Accomplished_B  I agree with @JacobZ and @Dave-1 i personally would not do that as the Lillie Pillies will be too big and smother the Crepe Myrtles in time. Keep your Crepe Myrtles as the feature. They will be absolutely stunning in Summer 🌿😃

Dave-1 · Answer

Good afternoon @Accomplished_B

Strangely I have just been pruning one of my crepe myrtles today :)

I wouldnt really want to plant anything between the crepe myrtles you already have for the same reasoning that @JacobZ has said. The competition will stunt the growth of both trees (I do think the lilly pillies would block out the crepe myrtles with time.

The fence extension idea would be something to consider.

With the crepe myrtle's, they do really well being pruned. Come spring the branches will have an extra burst and you will end up with more leaves/taller branches. That said pruning them back is a little scary :) You feel like you re taking too much but believe me they come back stronger. Just takes time for the trees to become established.

I prune these back every 2 years ish, You can see the previous knobs where they were last done.

This was a year ago almost to the day, The crepe myrtle is the top left of the photo. I didnt prune it last year.

Once your trees get a solid base to them you could let the branches go wild, so even in Autumn/winter the stands of sticks will still provide privacy. Or go the route of pruning every second one every 2 years. :) That way you will get a balanced height with leaves and flowers.

Dave