Garden Care Services

 
At Fox Mowing, our Garden Care Services are all about keeping your outdoor spaces vibrant, tidy, and thriving. From weeding and pruning to mulching, planting, and seasonal clean-ups, we handle every detail with care and precision. Whether it’s a one-off garden refresh or regular maintenance, our experienced team ensures your garden stays healthy, beautiful, and a joy to come home to.

We take a personalised approach to every garden, considering your plant varieties, soil conditions, and local climate to develop a care plan that brings out the best in your outdoor space. Our trained gardeners know how to promote plant health, control pests naturally, and keep everything looking its best through every season.

Beyond regular upkeep, we’re also happy to provide guidance on plant selection, layout improvements, and sustainable gardening practices. Whether you have a flourishing flower bed, a veggie patch, or a mix of natives and ornamentals, Fox Mowing helps your garden reach its full potential with dependable, professional care.

Watering Your Garden

There is an overwhelming amount of information available about the correct methods for watering, the right amount of water, and how often to water. This information might be all well and good as general information, but as temperatures, water and other climatic conditions around Australia differ depending on where you live then the rules might not apply to you and your garden or even different sections of your garden.

When watering you’ll have to take into account the type of plant, the climate, the soil condition and the different times and seasons of the year – all of which will influence your watering regime.

These are the main factors that will impact upon your watering:

Plant Type

The type of plant you’re dealing with will dictate how much water they will need. Succulents and other drought-tolerant plants that have extensive root systems and store water and moisture are naturally able to retain water better and do not require much water to survive. Other plants that are not so drought tolerant will need to be greater quantities of water on a much more frequent basis, particularly in hotter conditions. The needs work both ways as there’s no better way of killing a succulent than with over-watering, which will rot the root system. More people kill cacti with the “kindness” of over-watering than from any other reason.

Plants that are large or are newly planted will also require more water as they will need plenty of moisture and nutrients to establish themselves and grow. Plants with shallow root systems such as vegetables or most perennials will also need more frequent watering because they don’t have the reservoirs of water storage, nor the deep roots through which they can obtain water from deep within the soil.

Climate

Australia’s climate can differ vastly depending on where you are live.
Marble Bar, WA holds the record for the longest running heatwave in Australia with 161 consecutive days over 37.8.C and is known for reaching temperatures of 42 degrees by 9am! By comparison on the cooler and rather frostier side is Liawenee, Tasmania, where on average there are 142 days a year below freezing and only 0.7 days a year reach above 30 degrees! The difference is amazing, but that’s what you get when you have a country the size of a continent, albeit the world’s smallest. As you can imagine, if the same plants were planted in both of these areas, different amounts of water and care would be required in order to help them survive.

Soil Condition

If you live in coastal areas, or in regions that are affected by sandy soils, your plants will need more watering. It’s difficult for sandy soils to retain water so they’ll quickly dry out, and the nutrients can drain from the soil quite easily, slowing starving your plants of food. In cases of sandy soil, it is always advisable to apply mulch over the garden beds. This will help sandy soils to retain moisture and inhibit nutrients lost to the air too.

Season

The general rule is that no matter what the time of the year, in hot temperatures you will need to water more, as the sun will suck all the moisture from the ground and plants, leaving them thirsty and prone to heat stroke and sun damage. On cold days the soil will better retain its moisture, as the sun will evaporate less liquid. Frequent rainfall and dew also helps watering to be kept at a minimum.
But the seasons have an impact on us as well. We all know that each of the four seasons have different conditions and weather patterns – from the scorching heat of summer, to the regular frosts of winter. When it’s cold and wet don’t seem to drink as much as when it’s hot and humid.
But nevertheless some people thrive in heat, while others wilt. Some people love the cold while others just want to hibernate. The same variations in character apply to our plants.
Consider also that summers aren’t always dry and winters aren’t always wet, even though these are the conditions that the majority of Australians are used to. There are climatic zones where the summers are wet, or monsoonal, and the winters are dry. “Hot” and “dry” aren’t synonyms, nor are “cold” and “wet”.

With all the different conditions that have an impact on our gardens, watering can become confusing and devising an optimal watering strategy can be a bit overwhelming. You might now be desperately trying to wrack your mind thinking, “When on earth was the last time I watered?” or feeling guilty with thoughts of “Am I watering too often or not enough?”

So before you whip out the hose or make a mad dash for your watering can – stop, wait, take a breather and go out and look at your plants and the soil! There’s no use watering if it is already moist enough for those particular plants in question and you definitely don’t want to over-water your plants as this can cause its own myriad of problems – cacti aren’t the only plants that can be overwatered!

How to tell If your Plants need Water

Plants need a relatively constant supply of water, so if they don’t have enough they will start to show the following signs of water deprivation, which include:

• Yellowing or drying of leaves
• Wilting of leaves and foliage
• Plant roots growing close to the surface of the soil
• Dry, hard or cracked ground around the plant

Testing your Soil’s moisture content

Still not sure you are watering properly? The surest and easiest way to test if your soil is moist and is retaining enough water for the plants is by doing a few simple tests.

The Squeeze Test

If your not afraid of getting your hands dirty, all you will need to do is to dig around in your garden, and pull out a palm full of soil. Don’t just get the top layer, but dig a little deeper and get some of the under layer that is an inch or two under. Once you have the soil – squeeze your hand shut and then open your fingers.

What you’re generally looking for is for the soil to hold together and form a rough ball shape. This ball will be neither compacted nor dense. Some small grains of soil might break away from the ball but your hand will remain free of any traces of water. This shows that you have a good level of moisture content in your soil. You know that your plants are getting the right amount of water because the water in the soil is what the water has left behind, not too much but not too little either.

If this isn’t what happened then your soil will either be too dry or too wet:

If it’s too dry the soil will crumble in your hand and break apart.
Wet soil will form a dense ball shape, will leave residue on your fingers and fingerprint marks on the soil.
If the soil is way too wet it will be soft and squishy and your fingers will be coated in wet dirt. When you squeeze the ball, water will be visible on the surface of the soil.

Finger Test

Another quick test is the Finger Test. As suggested, you use your finger (which is less messy so may appeal more to the ‘tentative green thumb’ gardener. Stick your finger deep into the soil. The top layers will be a bit drier than the under layers as the sun tends to evaporate moisture from the surface, but the deeper you go in the soil, the more moist it should become. If your soil is moist but not wet a couple of inches down then this is a good sign that your soil can absorb and drain in the right proportion and give the required water to your plant’s roots.

Now that you have established the moisture content of your soil, you can adjust it accordingly. If your soil is dry – Water it deeply. If it is wet or saturated – back off the watering for a while so that It can dry up a little.

General rules of watering your garden

Before watering, check the local weather forecasts to see if any rain is due. Being a smart gardener and using nature’s supply of free water to help water your garden will save you time, and cost you less on your next water bill!

Water in the morning

The best time of day to water is always in the morning. An early morning watering gives the plants the time to absorb the moisture from the soil before it is evaporated by the sun. Early watering also distributes nutrients and energy throughout the soil so that plants can absorb them and prepare themselves for the heat or coldness of the day.

If you don’t have the time in the morning, you can always give watering a go in the afternoon or early evening (especially in the warmer months). We would encourage caution, however, as you need to leave enough time for leaves to dry before it gets dark. Leaving foliage wet over night can lead to fungal diseases on your plants.

Water the Roots

Fungal diseases can be a big issue with plants, so we always recommend that you avoid wetting foliage and leaves directly as this can aggravate the problem.
It’s the roots that need the water, not the leaves.
Watering directly on the foliage can also lead to the spreading of infected spores to other plants by splashing water. This is a big problem especially with roses and black spot and care should be taken to remove all infected leaves to prevent further infestation.
Watering leaves in full sun can also cause water droplets on the leaves to act like lenses, concentrating heat and damaging the leaves.
Watering plants directly at the root or use a drip irrigation system to prevent the spreading of fungal diseases.
For more information on designing irrigation systems, go here.

Water deeply

Some plants grow their roots deep into the earth where it’s cooler and they can retain and obtain moisture from the deeper layers of the soil, enabling them to be firmly established to combat excessive heat and cold snaps.

Plants grow from the roots up. So they need water deep enough to reach the root system. The majority of roots for annuals – plants that only live for one year before dying as they seed – are in the top 6 inches of soil.
Perennials – plants that live over many years – as well as shrubs and trees have roots that penetrate at least to the top 12 inches. This makes sense, imagine how deep a root system has to be to hold up a plant that rises for many feet above the ground. This is why a deep soaking is necessary. This does not mean that you drench the plant until they are floating in a pool of water! It just means you give each plant a steady amount of water so that you can see it absorbing into the soil. Don’t get carried away. Flooding is never good for your plants!

A drip irrigation system is probably the best way of watering your gardens as it preserves the water from evaporation and directs the water straight to where it is needed – to the roots!

Avoid Light Watering

If you think light watering is a safe method of watering. Think again! Light and frequent watering only wets the top layer of soil. This encourages the roots to seek out the moisture only on the surface of the ground because that’s where the plant “learns” that the water is. This leads to weak and shallow root systems. As the sun evaporates the remaining water, drying out the soil, the roots will be left in hot, dry soil lacking the water they require. If left unwatered, this can result in the plant dying. So don’t water lightly and frequently, or you’ll be condemning yourself, and your plants, to daily light watering forever.

Don’t Overwater!

If your plants are starting to look unhealthy, it may be tempting to think that this is a sign that they need more water. However if you water regularly, and the soil around the plants is wet to the touch it can also be a sign that you are actually giving your plants too much water.

If you are overwatering your plants, and saturating them with more water than they can cope with you may see your plants giving you the following signs:

• Sagging, drooping and wilting of the leaves
• Leaves falling off the plant.
• Decreased and faded colour and browning or yellowing of foliage
• Stunted growth and lack of vigour. This happens because over-watering has diluted the nutrients in the soil to the point where the plants are starving.
• Seeds rotting before they germinate, or seedlings rotting at the soil line and falling over. This is called “damping off” and is caused by a variety of soil-borne fungi. You can avoid damping off by keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, and using compost to add vital nutrients in the soil to keep it healthy and to fight off fungi.

Hot Weather Watering

In summer and spring your plants will need more water and you’ll need to be more diligent with your watering compared to in the cooler months of winter and autumn.

In hotter weather your plants are dependant on water for survival and you will need to employ methods to drought proof your garden so your plants have the best chance possible to stay alive and healthy.

This might involve watering plants daily or in extreme cases a couple of times a day when they are visibly wilting and suffering from heat stress. Plants that are in containers should be moved out of the sun and can be soaked with water until the water starts to come out of the bottom of the drainage holes.

Whatever the season, just look out for the tell tale signs of over or under-watering and adjust the watering to suit.

So in summary, it is vital to water properly with it all coming down to:

• Changing the amount of water depending upon your type of plant, climate, soil condition and season.
• Checking that your soil has adequate moisture content and adjusting accordingly.
• Deep watering in the early morning
• Watering the roots and not the foliage and to avoid over-watering

If you do all of these you should be able to have happy and growing plants in your garden.

One final note:

It’s much easier to plant and water according to the soil and climate type than to treat the soil and compensating for the climate. However, if you’re absolutely determined to have an “English Country Garden” in a hot, sandy coastal location then be prepared to spend years building up the organic elements in the soil until you achieve the right balance of nutrition, drainage and pH. It has been done and some people love the results.

After all is said and done, some people like high-maintenance gardens and watering regimes, while some people like to have the best possible garden with the minimal amount of work. No matter which extreme you are, you might like to consider using Fox Mowing and Gardening to help you make the most out of your unique garden situation. And while we’re there watering your garden, or designing a system that suits you and your gardens needs, we can do a lot of other stuff too to get your garden looking, and feeling, its best.

Drought Protection For Your Garden

Ahhh, the Australian Summer …
Blistering 40 degree days, where you could fry an egg on your driveway, boil water without a kettle, and be dripping wet without stepping foot near water, and that’s just in the shade!

Although not every Summer’s day is this extreme, and not everywhere in Australia is like this in the Summer (southern Tasmania, anyone?), no matter where you live across our magnificent continent you are, at least occasionally, bound to come across temperatures well above 30 degrees with hot, dry winds.
The Bureau of Meteorology defines drought as what happens when rainfall is in its lowest 10% over a three-month period. But you plant couldn’t care less.

We define drought as any period of time over which heat and lack of water stresses your garden beyond its capacity to adapt and recover.

However it comes, and however you reasonably define it, drought is drought and it can be unrelenting in its drying effect!

As humans living in the age of modern technology and air conditioners, when the temperatures soar we’re able to wallow comfortably indoors in 21-degree bliss. We can even bring the pets inside keeping them out of the sun and giving them plenty of water. That’s all well and good for us, but do we spare a thought for our gardens?
Our plants and gardens don’t have the option of uprooting themselves, taking a walk inside and lying down like literal couch potatoes under a stream of air-conditioned air.
No matter what the conditions your plants are outside 24/7.
Now they have, over time, come up with some impressive strategies for dealing with temperature and water-supply extremes, but that doesn’t mean that there’s nothing that we can do to give them some support.

Drought Protection Is More Than Just Watering

We know that we need to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and protective clothing to prevent sunburn. We know that we need to keep hydrated.
We know that you care about your garden. That’s why you’re even reading this article. You know that you have to protect your plants from too much heat and dehydration too and all the resulting wilting, drying up and ultimately dying from over-exposure to heat and sun and lack of water.

But for many gardeners the response to heat and dryness is simply to water, water, water. While this might be well intentioned and sound reasonable, watering is more an emergency response and is not, in fact, necessarily the best way to deal with drought, whether it’s an isolated extremely hot day or many days in a row. In order to deal with drought in a truly effective way, you need to understand a little about how plants actually work.

How Plants Make a Living

Just like people and other animals, plants get their energy from carbohydrates and fats. But animals get their carbs and fats from plants. Animals are, as far as plants are concerned, predators, parasites and only occasional business partners. Plants make their own food.
Plants eat light. They breath in carbon dioxide and drink water and from these three inputs they make carbs and oils through the magic of chlorophyll (the thing that makes so many plants green) and a chemical process called photosynthesis – from the Greek words meaning “putting together with light”. This happens mainly in the plant’s leaves, like lawn grass blades. Plants produce oxygen as a by-product of photosynthesis.

So plants need water not just to drink but to make food. When they release oxygen, they do so through the underside of their leaves along with some water, too, just like we release carbon and water when we breathe out (that’s why on a cold day, you can see the water you breathe out condensing in the chilly air).

On hot days, the photosynthesis speeds up, so the plant has to suck more water out of the soil to keep the process going. This can become a significant challenge. If there isn’t enough water available, the plant will dry out. Too much sun and not enough water will mean leaves drying out. The worst-case scenario from dehydration is, of course, the death of the plant.

Irrigation

Australia’s climate can be as diverse as its landscapes—from dry inland regions to coastal areas with summer downpours. Whether you’re living in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, or a regional town, one thing is certain: efficient irrigation is essential for a lush, healthy garden and a vibrant, green lawn.
At Fox Mowing, we understand how valuable your outdoor spaces are, and that’s why we offer expert irrigation services designed specifically for Australian conditions. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your lawns and gardens well-watered, without wasting a drop.

Why Irrigation Matters

Irrigation is more than just watering—it’s about delivering the right amount of water, at the right time, to the right places in your lawn and garden. Proper irrigation:

• Encourages deep root growth
• Reduces plant stress and disease
• Saves time and water
• Promotes a greener, healthier lawn year-round
• Prevents overwatering and under-watering

In Australia, where water conservation is crucial, a well-designed irrigation system is both environmentally responsible and cost-effective.

Types of Irrigation Systems for Aussie Gardens

Different gardens and lawns require different irrigation methods. Here are the most common systems we install and maintain at Fox Mowing:

1. Drip Irrigation

Perfect for garden beds, trees, and hedges. Drip systems deliver water slowly and directly to plant roots, reducing evaporation and water waste. Ideal for drought-prone areas.

2. Pop-up Sprinkler Systems

Popular for lawns, these sprinklers rise when in use and disappear when not, providing even coverage and a neat appearance.

3. Soaker Hoses

A low-cost option for smaller gardens, these hoses “sweat” water along their length—great for veggie patches and narrow borders.

4. Smart Irrigation Systems

Integrating timers, rain sensors, and even weather data, these systems automate watering schedules and adjust according to rainfall or temperature. Save water and never worry about overwatering again!

Tailored Irrigation for Australia’s Climate Zones

Australia’s climate zones—from tropical to temperate to arid—affect how you should irrigate. At Fox Mowing, we provide customised irrigation planning, taking into account:

• Local rainfall patterns
• Soil type
• Plant selection
• Sun exposure
• Water restrictions in your council area

This ensures your system is both effective and compliant with local regulations.

Common Irrigation Problems We Can Fix

Sometimes systems fail, and when they do, we’re here to help. Common issues include:

• Leaks and broken pipes
• Clogged or misaligned sprinkler heads
• Inconsistent water pressure
• Overwatering or dry patches
• Timer malfunctions

Fox Mowing provides full irrigation maintenance and repair services, so you can enjoy peace of mind all year round.

Integrating Irrigation with Other Garden Care Services

We don’t just install and repair irrigation—we integrate it into a broader garden care plan. Here’s how:

• Mulching: Mulch helps retain moisture in your soil, reducing the need for frequent watering.
• Pruning: Strategic pruning allows for better air and water flow around your plants.
• Tree Removal & Planting: Large trees can soak up huge amounts of water. We help assess what to keep, what to remove, and how to irrigate effectively around them.
• Seasonal Adjustments: We adjust your irrigation setup as seasons change—from summer’s high demand to winter’s minimal needs.

Water Restrictions and Sustainability in Australia

Water is a precious resource, and each state or council may have different rules. Our team stays updated on:

• Local watering schedules and restrictions
• Government rebates or incentives for water-saving systems
• Eco-friendly irrigation techniques

We help you stay compliant—and green—at the same time.

Why Choose Fox Mowing for Irrigation?

• Local expertise across Australia
• Fully insured, qualified, and trained professionals
• Friendly, reliable service
• Custom irrigation solutions
• Garden care integration

From installation to ongoing maintenance, we’re here to make sure your lawn and garden thrive in every season.

1. How often should I water my lawn in Australia?

It depends on your location and season. In general, deep watering 2–3 times per week in summer is enough, while less is needed in winter. Our team can set up an efficient schedule tailored to your area.

2. Can you install a water-saving irrigation system?

Absolutely. We specialise in water-efficient drip and smart irrigation systems that conserve water and reduce your bills.

3. Do you service existing irrigation systems?

Yes! We repair, upgrade, and maintain existing systems, whether we installed them or not.

4. What’s the best time of day to water?

Early morning (before 10am) is ideal to reduce evaporation. Smart timers can take care of this for you automatically.

5. Can I use greywater in my irrigation system?

Yes, but you need a specially designed greywater system. We can advise you on the right solution that meets local regulations.

Mulching

A well-mulched garden doesn’t just look tidy and well-kept—it functions better, too. Whether you’re maintaining a flower bed, veggie patch, or landscaped garden, mulching and re-mulching are among the most effective ways to conserve moisture, control weeds, and improve soil health.

At Fox Mowing, we offer professional mulching services across Australia, helping homeowners and property managers keep their gardens looking great—and thriving—all year round.

What Is Mulching?

Mulching is the process of covering the soil surface with a protective layer of organic or inorganic material. This layer acts as a shield, defending your garden from harsh sun, excessive water loss, erosion, and unwanted weed growth.

Benefits of Mulching for Australian Gardens

Australia’s weather conditions—ranging from scorching summers to unpredictable downpours—make mulching a must for any serious garden lover. Here’s why:

• Moisture Retention: Reduces evaporation, keeping roots cool and hydrated for longer.
• Weed Suppression: Blocks sunlight, preventing weeds from taking hold.
• Temperature Regulation: Keeps soil cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
• Soil Improvement: Organic mulches break down over time, enriching the soil.
• Erosion Control: Protects soil from being washed away during heavy rains.
• Water Conservation: Less frequent watering means lower water bills and more sustainable gardening.

Popular Types of Mulch We Use

We help you choose the right mulch based on your garden’s needs, aesthetic preferences, and local conditions:

1. Organic Mulch (Breaks down over time, enriching soil)

• Sugarcane mulch – Great for vegetable gardens
• Bark mulch – Long-lasting, great for garden beds
• Lucerne and pea straw – Ideal for moisture-hungry plants
• Eucalyptus mulch – Naturally pest-repelling and aromatic

2. Inorganic Mulch (Decorative and long-lasting)

• Pebbles and crushed rock – Modern look, great for landscaped areas
• Recycled rubber – Low maintenance and great around play areas
• Weed matting with decorative cover – For very low-maintenance gardens

Re-Mulching: When and Why It’s Needed

Over time, mulch breaks down, fades, or gets displaced. That’s where re-mulching comes in. Most gardens benefit from a fresh top-up every 12–18 months, depending on the type of mulch used and local weather conditions.

Signs your garden is due for re-mulching:

• The mulch layer is thin or patchy (should be 5–7cm thick)
• Weed growth is returning
• The soil dries out quickly
• Mulch has faded or lost its texture

Fox Mowing offers seasonal re-mulching services to ensure your garden continues to benefit year after year.

Mulching Around Trees, Lawns, and Garden Beds

Each part of your garden needs a slightly different approach:

• Around Trees: We apply mulch in a doughnut shape, keeping it away from the trunk to avoid rot.
• Garden Beds: We ensure an even layer, using mulch suited to your plants and soil type.
• Near Lawns: We edge properly so mulch doesn’t spill into turf areas or interfere with mowing.

Eco-Friendly and Council-Compliant

We use sustainable, locally sourced mulch wherever possible and ensure that our mulching methods comply with your local council’s environmental guidelines. We’re also happy to advise on mulch types that support native plants or attract pollinators to your garden.

FAQs

1. How thick should mulch be applied?

We recommend applying mulch in a 5–7cm thick layer for best results. Too thin, and it won’t suppress weeds; too thick, and it may block water from reaching the roots.

2. How often should I re-mulch?

Most gardens benefit from re-mulching once a year, especially in high-traffic or high-exposure areas.

3. Can you mulch around existing plants?

Yes! We carefully mulch around established plants, ensuring the roots benefit without burying stems or trunks.

4. Do you supply the mulch?

Absolutely. We source and deliver quality mulch based on your garden’s specific needs and budget.

5. What’s the best mulch for Australian native gardens?

We typically recommend eucalyptus mulch or shredded bark, which complement native species and support soil biology without overfeeding.

Let Fox Mowing Take Care of It

Whether your garden is overdue for a top-up or you’re planning a complete refresh, our mulching and re-mulching services can make all the difference. Our team will:

• Recommend the right mulch type
• Deliver and install it efficiently
• Edge garden beds for a clean look
• Re-mulch as part of your seasonal care

Pruning

Pruning isn’t just about making your plants look neat and tidy—done correctly, it encourages healthier growth, prevents disease, improves flower and fruit production, and even boosts your property’s street appeal. At Fox Mowing, we provide expert pruning services for hedges, shrubs, trees, and ornamental plants, tailored to Australian conditions and seasonal cycles.

Whether it’s a light trim or a strategic cut-back, our team ensures your garden remains in top shape all year round.

Why Pruning Is Essential for Every Garden

Australian gardens face a range of seasonal and climate challenges, from harsh summer heat to stormy winds. Regular pruning helps your plants cope, flourish, and remain manageable.

Key benefits of pruning include:

• Encouraging New Growth – Pruning stimulates fresh shoots, fuller foliage, and more flowers or fruit.
• Improving Plant Health – Removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches helps stop pests and disease from spreading.
• Enhancing Shape and Structure – Strategic trimming maintains symmetry and structure, particularly for hedges and ornamental plants.
• Increasing Safety – Removing low-hanging or unstable branches protects your property, fences, and family.
• Maximising Sunlight and Airflow – Thinning dense canopies allows more light and air into your garden, which improves overall plant health.

Our Pruning Services

Our professional team handles all types of pruning jobs across residential and commercial properties throughout Australia:

Hedge Trimming

Keep your hedges crisp, level, and dense. We shape, reduce height, and remove straggly or sparse growth.

Shrub and Bush Pruning

Maintain shape and health in your decorative plants, whether you’re after formal topiary or relaxed native borders.

Tree Pruning (Up to Small Tree Height)

We carefully prune smaller trees to reduce weight, shape the canopy, or remove dangerous limbs. For large tree removals or high-branch work, we can recommend a qualified arborist.

Fruit Tree Pruning

Improve fruit yield and tree health by pruning at the correct time of year. We follow seasonal best practices for citrus, stone fruits, apples, and more.

Flowering Plant Pruning

We know which flowering plants should be pruned after blooming vs. during dormancy, so you don’t miss out on next season’s display.

Timing Matters: When to Prune in Australia

Pruning at the wrong time can stress plants or reduce flowering. That’s why our team is trained to prune according to regional climate and plant variety.

Here’s a general guide:

We adjust our pruning techniques based on local conditions, such as frost risk, drought, and heatwaves—especially important in variable Australian climates.

What Happens If You Don’t Prune?

Neglected plants can become:

• Overgrown and unmanageable
• Prone to pests and fungal diseases
• Weak and structurally unsound
• Less productive (especially in fruiting plants)
• Visually untidy, affecting your curb appeal

Our regular pruning service can prevent costly problems down the line and keep your garden safe and attractive.

Part of a Complete Garden Care Plan

Pruning works best when combined with other garden services, which we’re proud to offer at Fox Mowing:

• Mulching – Helps retain moisture and protect roots after pruning.
• Irrigation – Ensures plants recover and thrive after pruning cuts.
• Green Waste Removal – We take care of all the clippings and leave your garden spotless.

FAQs

1. How often should I prune my garden plants?

It depends on the plant species and your local climate. Hedges may need pruning every 6–8 weeks during peak growing seasons, while fruit trees are typically pruned once or twice a year. We can tailor a schedule to suit your garden.

2. Can pruning harm my plants?

When done incorrectly—yes. Over-pruning or cutting at the wrong time can stress or damage plants. Our team is trained in plant-specific pruning techniques to avoid this.

3. Do you remove the clippings?

Yes, we always clean up after ourselves and take away all pruned material unless you’d like to keep it for composting.

4. Can you shape hedges into specific designs?

Absolutely! From formal box hedges to creative shapes, we can sculpt your hedges to match your style.

5. Is there a best time of year to prune fruit trees?

Yes. Most fruit trees are best pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. But it varies per species—our team knows the correct approach.

Let the Fox Mowing Team Prune with Precision

From the smallest shrubs to statement hedges and everything in between, we’ve got the tools, knowledge, and local know-how to prune your garden properly. Regular pruning is key to a healthier, more beautiful outdoor space—and we’re here to help you achieve it.

Tree Removal

Trees are a vital part of any landscape, offering shade, character, and environmental benefits—but there are times when a tree becomes more of a hazard than a help. Whether it’s dying, overgrown, storm-damaged, or growing too close to your home, safe tree removal is sometimes the best solution for your garden’s health and your property’s safety.

At Fox Mowing, we offer professional tree removal services for small to medium trees and can assist with large removals through trusted local arborists. Our team works safely, efficiently, and always in compliance with local council regulations.

When Tree Removal Is Necessary

Tree removal isn’t always a first choice, but it’s often unavoidable in situations like:

• Dead or Dying Trees: Dead wood can fall without warning, posing serious safety risks.
• Storm Damage: Cracked or leaning trees after high winds or storms need urgent attention.
• Root Damage to Property: Tree roots can crack pathways, lift driveways, and damage underground pipes.
• Excessive Shade: Blocking sunlight from lawns or solar panels can reduce your garden’s productivity.
• Bushfire Risk: Overgrown or dense trees in high-risk areas may need to be removed for safety.
• Overcrowding or Landscaping Changes: Clearing space for new designs or allowing other plants to thrive.

What’s Involved in Tree Removal

Tree removal is more than just cutting down a trunk. At Fox Mowing, we follow a careful and methodical process to ensure the job is done safely and professionally.

Our process includes:

1. Assessment & Quote

• We assess the tree’s condition, location, and surrounding risks.
• We check for any council permits or restrictions that may apply.

2. Safe Tree Removal

We dismantle trees using the safest method—either in sections or in one controlled removal, depending on space.

3. Stump Options

We offer stump grinding to fully remove the base or can cut the stump to ground level if preferred.

4. Clean-Up & Green Waste Removal

We take care of all branches, trunks, and debris, leaving your garden neat and tidy.

Do You Need Council Approval?

In many Australian councils, you may need approval to remove certain trees, especially large natives or those protected by a Tree Preservation Order. Don’t worry—we’re familiar with local council regulations and can assist you with:

• Checking tree protection rules
• Applying for removal permits (if required)
• Recommending alternatives like crown reduction if removal isn’t allowed

Tree Removal vs. Tree Pruning: What’s Best?

Sometimes a full removal isn’t necessary. Our experienced team will assess your tree and may recommend professional pruning or shaping as a safer, more sustainable option—especially if the tree is healthy but simply overgrown.

We’ll always advise the most suitable, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible solution.

Post-Removal Services

After tree removal, you may want to improve the area. Fox Mowing offers:

• Replanting Advice – We can suggest better-suited species for your space or garden goals.
• Mulching – Turn tree waste into mulch for your garden beds.
• Firewood Cutting (upon request) – Reuse branches or trunks as eco-friendly firewood.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I remove a tree on my property without council permission?

It depends on your local council and the tree’s size, species, and location. We can help you navigate the rules and determine whether you need approval.

2. Do you remove large trees?

We remove small to medium-sized trees. For large or high-risk trees, we collaborate with qualified arborists to ensure safety and compliance.

3. Will you take away all the branches and tree waste?

Yes. We offer complete clean-up and green waste removal as part of our service. We leave your property clean and clear.

4. What about the stump?

We offer stump grinding to remove it completely or can cut it low to the ground—depending on your preference and budget.

5. How much does tree removal cost?

Pricing varies based on tree size, access, and location. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.

Why Choose Fox Mowing for Tree Removal?

• Trained, insured, and experienced team
• Safe and compliant with local laws
• Timely, friendly, and respectful service
• No mess left behind
• Advice on tree care, replanting, and aftercare

Tree problems? Let’s deal with them before they become hazards. Whether you’re after a complete removal or just an honest opinion on your options, the Fox Mowing team is here to help.