please advise if this tree is healthy. Worried location not great no direct light in winter plenty summer autumn near Geelong vic. Has never flowered but has a ‘stump’ was well when planted 3-4 years ago but progressively worsened leaves still grow but turn brown quickly. Leaves brown off quickly after we trim. Is divide at bottom of branches ok? thanks
Hello @Tonyjoll
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your grass tree.
Your Grass Tree is showing some encouraging signs. All three growing points are still producing foliage, with the left-hand crown showing particularly good green growth. The thick, dark trunk is also characteristic of a mature grass tree.
I think the location may be contributing to the browning you are seeing. Grass trees generally appreciate plenty of light and excellent drainage. Near Geelong, a courtyard receiving good summer and autumn light, but little direct winter sun can keep the soil cooler and moist for longer. The surrounding walls also reduce the amount of open light reaching the crowns. As spring progresses and the sun becomes higher and stronger, you may see the new growth improve.
The browning following trimming also makes sense. Grass-tree leaves naturally develop brown tips after being cut because the cut end cannot regenerate its original pointed tip. I would therefore avoid regularly trimming the green leaves. Instead, gently remove fully brown leaves around the base of each crown when they come away readily, leaving the healthy green growth intact.
The absence of flowers over the three to four years you've had it isn't particularly unusual. Grass trees can go considerable periods between flowering, with flowering influenced by maturity, seasonal conditions, sunlight and environmental triggers. The substantial trunk indicates this is already a mature, slow-growing specimen.
The divide where the branches meet looks consistent with the tree's natural branching structure. From the photo, the surrounding tissue appears firm and well connected. I would simply keep an eye on this area and avoid having water continually directed into the junction.
My main focus would be sunlight, watering and drainage rather than feeding or heavy pruning. Allow the soil around the tree to drain freely and begin drying between watering, make sure to avoid continually wetting the crown or trunk.
With spring now arriving, this is a great time to watch the fresh central leaves. If they remain green, upright and firmly attached, that's a reassuring indication that the growing points are active. Overall, your grass tree is showing active living growth, and careful watering, minimal trimming and as much available sunlight as possible should give it a good opportunity to develop fuller, greener crowns over the warmer months.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
