Escallonia Rubra Red Knight

A fast-growing evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and bright red flowers. Perfect for hedges or screens.

1. Choosing the Right Location

• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade for vibrant growth and flowering.
• Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil with moderate organic content.
• Spacing: Space plants 50–70cm apart for hedging or mass planting.

2. Planting Time

• Best Time to Plant: Spring (September–November) or autumn (March–May).

3. Preparing the Planting Site

• Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with compost or aged manure to boost fertility.
• Digging the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.

4. Planting

• Plant Placement: Position the root ball level with the soil surface.
• Support: Not required for this sturdy shrub.

5. Watering and Fertilising

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during the first growing season.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage lush foliage and blooms.

6. Mulching and Maintenance

• Mulching: Use bark or straw mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pruning: Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and density.

7. Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Watch for aphids and whiteflies; treat as needed with neem oil.
• Diseases: Avoid waterlogging to prevent fungal issues.

8. Winter Care

• Hardiness: Frost-tolerant and handles New Zealand winters well.

9. Common Uses

• Excellent for hedging, borders, or as a screening plant.