How to grow eucalyptus at home

O eucalyptus it’s everywhere – whether it’s on our favorite sheets, hanging from our showers or in beauty and spa items, this plant is a staple for a simple, personal touch in the home. But have you ever stopped to think about how to grow it?

Eucalyptus trees are a favorite with koalas and are native to Australia. These evergreen trees can grow up to 18 meters tall in the wild, but you’re more likely to find them hovering between 2 to 3 meters in gardens domestic use, as its round silver-blue leaves are a favorite of many plant lovers.

How to grow and care for eucalyptus

plant care

To the eucalyptus trees can grow quickly (several meters in a year) if cared for properly. They love sunlight, so position them in a location that receives a good amount of sunlightwhether indoors or outdoors.

Furthermore, eucalyptus trees can thrive in various soil conditions (making them a great outdoor plant), but it’s best to plant them in well-draining soil so they’re primed to thrive.

To find out when your eucalyptus needs water, use the finger test: stick a finger in the soil, and if the soil is damp, skip watering. If it feels dry to the touch, water it. Eucalyptus is quite drought tolerant, but if it gets too dry it can drop some of its leaves. If that’s the case, it’s time to get it wet.

Best eucalyptus growing conditions

Eucalyptus growing conditions vary quite a bit depending on whether you are planting your tree in a container indoors or outdoors in the garden.

If you choose to plant your eucalyptus outdoors, start growing the seeds indoors about 3 months before the time to plant them outdoors. Its external start date varies according to the first frost.

When the seed is growing and ready to be transplanted, choose an unobstructed spot in your garden that gets plenty of sunlight. If you are planting multiple eucalyptus trees, be sure to space them at least eight feet apart.

If you are growing your eucalyptus indoors, make sure your pot is big enough to accommodate this fast-growing tree, as you want to avoid replanting it mid-season.

Also make sure the soil drains well, and place it in a sunny spot in your home, such as a south-facing window.

eucalyptus varieties

• O Eucalyptus globulus is native to Tasmania but is a popular variety found in California today.
• O Eucalyptus Polyanthemos it has silvery blue-green leaves that resemble a silver dollar. This is the second most common variety found in California. In some areas, it may even be considered an invasive species.
• already the Eucalyptus Pulchella it has white bark and thin leaves, containing essential oils used in minty products.
• And the Eucalyptus Deglupta features a beautiful multicolored shell. This variety of eucalyptus is found in Hawaii, Florida and Puerto Rico.

How to propagate eucalyptus

To propagate your eucalyptus, remove a semi-woody branch. Dip the bottom of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a small container with well-draining soil.

Then cover the top of the plant and the container with a plastic bag to create a humid atmosphere. As it will remain covered, water the bottom of the plant by placing water in saucer on which the vase is sitting.

After about a month, remove the plastic bag and gently pull on the cutting. If you stand still, you are rooted. If not, repeat the process.

common growth problems

Growing eucalyptus from seed requires a lot of patience and planning. You can’t just put it down and hope for the best. Preparing seeds by chilling them, planting them indoors before the first frost, and transplanting them safely doesn’t require as much skill as it does. patience and pre-planning.

Eucalyptus trees are not prone to insects, but the longhorn borer can be a nuisance for this particular plant. If you notice holes in the bark or discolored leaves, remove them immediately.

Additionally, if your eucalyptus is positioned outside, consider bringing it indoors for the winter.

*Via My Domain