Some measured growth rates are shown in the graph on the left. Establishment To maximise production, each planted area should be 'fully stocked', that is, have a high survival rate at the chosen planting density. Good ground preparation and weed control are the keys to maximising tree survival and early growth. After seedlings are planted in winter at 1250 stems per hectare, protection from rabbits and stock is essential. Specialised contractors and consultants are available for site assessment, site preparation, planting, fertilising and spraying.
Nurseries can advise on suitable blue gum provenances for particular sites and purposes.
CALM has developed a 'Western blue gum' using seed selected from blue gums with superior performance under local conditions. Nutrition blue gums planted into well-fertilised pastures rarely suffer phosphorus deficiency. However, sites with a poor fertiliser history usually lack phosphorus and nitrogen, while sandy soils are often deficient in potassium. Some sites also lack trace elements. Added phosphorus is most effective if incorporated into the soil along the tree rows before planting, while nitrogen and potassium can be applied to the surface in spring after the trees are established.