How to Grow and Care for Eucalyptus: A Comprehensive Guide
Plant Overview
Eucalyptus trees, known colloquially as silver dollar trees or argyle apples, are evergreen trees native to Australia. They are characterized by their reddish-brown bark, silvery to blue-green leaves, and distinct menthol-like fragrance. Eucalyptus is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of up to 60 feet in its natural environment, but when grown in home gardens, it typically remains smaller at around 6 to 10 feet tall.
Plant Care
Sunlight and Soil: Eucalyptus prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate most soil types, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH levels.
Watering: Eucalyptus is somewhat drought-tolerant, but it does not like to be left dry for extended periods. Water your eucalyptus plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilizer: If you are growing eucalyptus in the ground, it typically does not need fertilizer. However, container plants will deplete their nutrients more quickly, so fertilize them with a low-nitrogen houseplant fertilizer throughout the growing season.
Pruning: Eucalyptus trees generally do not need much pruning. However, you can prune overgrown, broken, or misshapen branches to keep the plant looking attractive. The best time to prune is in the summer, but avoid pruning during very humid weather.
Propagation
Eucalyptus trees can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or grafting.
Growing from Seed: Eucalyptus seeds must be chilled in the refrigerator for two months before planting. Sow them indoors in late winter, about 10 to 12 weeks before your area’s last projected frost date. Once the seedlings are about 6 inches tall, they are ready to be transplanted outdoors.
Growing from Cuttings: The best time to take cuttings is when a tree is between 2 and 12 months old. To grow eucalyptus from cuttings:
- Prepare a small pot of 3 parts composted tree bark to 1 part perlite. Add a slow-release fertilizer. Moisten the growing medium.
- Use sterile pruning shears to cut a stem that is around 5 inches long with four to eight leaves. Cut just above a leaf node.
- Remove the leaves on the lower half of the cutting.
- Dip the cut end in a rooting hormone and plant it in the growing medium.
- Keep the container in bright, indirect light and ensure the soil remains lightly moist.
- Roots should form in about a month.
Growing in Containers
Eucalyptus plants are often grown in containers outside of their hardiness zones. This allows gardeners to protect their plants from the cold by bringing them indoors. When growing eucalyptus in containers, use a well-draining potting mix and a container with ample drainage holes.
Overwintering
If you are growing a container eucalyptus plant outside of its hardiness zones, you must bring it indoors to survive the winter. Place it near your brightest window and slightly back off on watering. Do not fertilize the plant during the winter.
Common Pests and Problems
Eucalyptus plants are relatively free of major pests or diseases. However, you may occasionally spot eucalyptus long-horned borers, especially on stressed plants. Remove the infested area of the plant immediately, as insecticides are not effective against borers.
Eucalyptus trees can also develop leaf problems, such as brown leaves. This can be a sign of too little moisture or disease. If you notice brown leaves, check the soil moisture and look for any signs of disease.
Additional Tips
- Eucalyptus is toxic to humans and pets, so it is important to keep it out of reach of children and animals.
- Eucalyptus trees can be invasive in some areas, so it is important to check with your local authorities before planting one.
- Eucalyptus is a fast-growing tree, so it is important to plant it in a location where it will have enough space to grow.
By following these tips, you can successfully grow and care for eucalyptus plants in your home or garden.
