Callistemon

All the Callistemon's that we grow (except C. Littlejohn) seem to be fairly robust. Through trial and error, we have found it best not to put plants outside that have soft new growth late in the season - as it gets damaged by frost.
If however the wood is hardened they are fine.
In the late spring, this years plants outside in 3 litre pots withstood 5-7degrees of frost with no damage.
A well drained soil to stop water-logging and a sunny site is required. If soft growth is caught by frost, it can just be pruned out, with no detrimental effect to the plant.

SEPTEMBER NEWS FROM THE NURSERY

The inclement weather continues, with strong winds and heavy rain at times; sometimes with thunder. Perhaps we should be positive at least the lawns have remained green throughout the summer.
Now that the summer holidays are a distant wet and windy past, plant sales are increasing - as it is indeed an excellent time for planting. The ground is warm and moist - what more could a plant want?
Many grasses are looking lovely, adding interest to the late summer border. Miscanthus also look good throughout the winter, with their dried flower heads catching the low winter sun.
Late flowering shrubs are a bonus and the Ceratostigmas are a good example - with bright blue flowers, popular with moths and other insects, followed by autumn leaf colour, they really lift the autumn garden.
For year round colour and strong shape in the border or container, Phormiums can be useful as summer colour fades.