Myrtle, myrtle tree: tips for care and reproduction. Origin and botanical description of the plant

Up to 5 years - annually, then every 2-4 years Summer 18-20 degrees, winter 8-10 In summer - when it dries up upper layer land, in winter - once a month Every day West and East windows Dislikes sudden changes in lighting

Lighting

When choosing a place for a plant, it is necessary to proceed from the fact that it is quite photophilous.

Myrtle can tolerate even direct sunlight, but still requires protection from the scorching summer sun.

The light-loving nature of myrtle must be taken into account if there is a desire to enjoy abundant flowering.

Western and eastern windows will be an excellent option for a plant. If you place the myrtle on the southern windows, then additional shading will be required so that the plant does not get burned. Located on the northern windows, due to the lack of sufficient, it will not bloom profusely.

The amount of light affects not only the abundance of flowering. It also affects the timing of exit from. In winter, you need to try to give the plant maximum light., because in this case, the rest period can last only 1-1.5 months. If the light comes from the north, then the dormant period can stretch up to 3 months.

Temperature

Myrtle quite calmly tolerates temperature fluctuations. However, you need to know that this plant prefers moderate or cooler temperatures (18-20 degrees Celsius).

If you want to have a healthy and well-groomed myrtle, then you will have to organize a cold winter for him.

In winter, myrtle will feel great at a temperature of + 8-10 degrees. If it rises, then there is a risk that the plant will shed its leaves.

The cold wintering of the plant is the key to its abundant flowering in the spring. If the myrtle will winter at room temperature, then, most likely, it will not bloom later. In addition, under these conditions, the plant requires abundant watering and spraying.

Falling leaves during a warm winter is not a sign of plant death. In the spring, with good care, the myrtle will quickly restore its green mass.

Watering

Myrtle doesn't like dry land. Both in winter and summer time the ground must be moist. In the summer, watering should be more intense - as the topsoil dries up.

In winter, it is best to reduce watering, but in no case stop (water once a month).

If in winter the myrtle is near heating appliances, then watering should be carried out as often as in the summer.

It is better to water soft and warm. You can spray the plant every day, especially in the heat.

The soil

The soil for the plant should pass moisture and air well, but at the same time be moisture-intensive. It should not be forgotten that the soil in which myrtle grows should never dry out completely. This can lead to the death of the plant.

The soil can be not only slightly acidic, but also neutral. But usually peat is used in its composition, which slightly acidifies the soil and makes it loose and airy.

The composition of the earth mixture for planting myrtle may also include the following components:

• Sod land;
• Humus;
• Peat;
• Sand.

All ingredients are taken in equal parts and mixed thoroughly. Myrtle also grows well in regular greenhouse soil. It is useful to add a little baking powder to it.

As a drainage, it is best to use fine expanded clay. It, unlike pebbles, is a moisture-intensive material. It is very useful for keeping the soil moist.

Fertilizer

It is best to feed the plant in the spring with complex fertilizers. In addition, top dressing should take place during the flowering period and in autumn.

With the beginning of spring growth, the fertilizer should have a high percentage of nitrogen, during flowering, phosphorus is preferred, while in autumn the plant should be enriched with potassium, which will have a beneficial effect on the ripening of shoots.

In winter, when kept in the cold, myrtle can not be fed at all.

If the world is kept in a warm room, then you can feed the myrtle a couple of times during the winter with half the dose of fertilizer.

Young and fast growing plants need more top dressing, while cuttings or seedlings do not fertilize at all.

Once every 10 days, it is advisable to use foliar top dressing, saturated with trace elements. To do this, dissolve 5 grams of complex fertilizer in 1 liter of water, add trace elements to it and spray the leaves.

Humidity

Myrtle does not put forward any special requirements for air humidity, however, overdried air can be an extremely undesirable phenomenon for him.

This is especially true in spring and autumn, when the heating is turned on, and the plant itself is still or already in the active phase.

To increase the humidity, the plant is placed on a pallet with wet expanded clay. In addition, the plant must be sprayed at least once a day.

Peculiarities

The plant does not like sudden changes in light. When moving myrtle from one window to another, it is necessary to give the plant time to get used to it.

You can try to put the tree away from the window and then gradually move it to the windowsill (or vice versa).

Myrtle is very picky about lighting. With its lack, the shoots become thin and stretched, and the leaves become smaller and lose their color intensity. This usually happens in winter, so in winter it is necessary to provide the plant with maximum lighting.

Excess light also has a bad effect on the appearance of the plant.. Its leaves turn yellow and their edges curl. Most often, the plant suffers from direct sun rays. We should not forget that the plant easily tolerates direct sunlight in the morning and evening hours or in winter. AT summer heat direct sunlight can cause burns on the leaves.

Cold wintering is desirable for the plant, but not required. However, during wintering at room temperature, myrtle can shed its foliage. The plant also reacts to a lack of lighting in winter.

Trimming / Support / Garter

Myrtle is very easy to shape. If nothing is done with the plant, it will try to acquire a pyramidal shape.

To give the myrtle the desired shape, it will need to be pruned regularly in the spring (before the start of new growth) and also in the middle of summer (after flowering).

In order for the myrtle to start bushing, it needs to cut off the top. If you cut all the side shoots, then as a result a lush tree with a branched crown will grow.

In any case, the myrtle will bloom, but in order for the flowering to be plentiful, it is still not worth pinching the shoots often, since in this case the plant will increase its green mass.

Young branches need to be pinched only when 3 pairs of leaves have been formed.. Inward-facing shoots are also subject to removal.

When pinching a young myrtle, it must be remembered that its central trunk is still rather weak to hold a lush crown. In order for him to cope with this task, give him time to get stronger. As a result, after 3 years it will be possible to get a beautiful and lush bush.

Diseases

Problems

Consider how to care for myrtle at home when problems arise.

• The most common problem for myrtle is rapid leaf fall.. The main reasons are the drying of the soil and the warm content in winter with a lack of light. Sometimes the myrtle sheds its leaves when it is moved to a new location (for example, from a balcony to a room).

Improper care for myrtle entails unpleasant consequences!

If the plant wilts, and the base of the main stem rots, then we are talking about a fungal disease that could occur if the root collar was not deepened correctly after transplantation. Rotting can be the result of excessive watering. Such a plant cannot be cured.

• If the stems lengthen and turn pale, then the plant is deficient in light. At the same time, the leaves become small, and flowering is practically not observed. You need to move it closer to the window.
• If the leaves fade, turn yellow and curl, then the plant has too much light.. Move it away from the window;
• Chlorosis (yellowing) of the leaves can cause iron deficiency in the substrate.

reproduction

Now we will learn how to propagate myrtle at home. Myrtle can be both cuttings and seeds. It will be much easier for an inexperienced grower to deal with cuttings. Cuttings can be cut twice a year: in the middle of summer and at the end of winter.

For this purpose, already strengthened cuttings from the middle or lower part of the crown are best suited. The length of each cutting must be at least 8 cm.

For propagation, myrtle cuttings need to be rooted in a mixture of sand and peat., cover with a plastic bag and place in a pot. The light falling on the future plant should be bright, but diffused.

Optimum temperature for rooting myrtle cuttings - 16-21 degrees Celsius.

Growing myrtle from seeds at home

Growing myrtle trees from seed is not difficult. Of course, this method is laborious and time consuming, therefore it is used when there is a need to obtain a large number of young plants.

For sowing, only fresh seeds are needed. It should be remembered that their germination is significantly reduced after 1 year of storage. Therefore, you need to buy them only from trusted distributors. Expired seeds may not sprout.

A special soil mixture is prepared for sowing myrtle seeds. It must contain in equal parts:

• sod land;
• Humus;
• Sand.

To increase friability, you can add a little baking powder (vermiculite, perlite).

Sowing is carried out in the spring from early March to mid-May. Sow preferably in a shallow pot or container. It should be no more than 10 cm in height and have several drainage holes for water to drain.

A small layer of drainage is laid at the bottom of the tank, then it is half filled with moistened soil mixture. The soil is leveled and seeds are laid on the surface. From above they are sprinkled with earth, but its layer should not be more than 3-5 mm. The container is covered with glass and put in a warm place with a temperature of 18-22ºС.

With regular soil moisture, seedlings appear after 2 weeks. After that, the glass is removed from the container. Seedlings dive only after 2 leaves are formed on them. The first year of life they should be protected from direct sunlight.

Transfer

Young plants are subject to annual potting a little bigger size. If the plant is already more than 5 years old, then this should be done no more than once every 2-4 years.

Myrtle transplantation at home is carried out in the spring as soon as the first green leaves begin to appear.

In the process, it is extremely important not to bury the root neck, as the plant can rot and die.

After transplanting, the myrtle does not need to be placed in the sun. The plant will require intensive spraying.

Description of the plant and species

Myrtle - evergreen shrub, which grows wild in the subtropical regions of Europe, North America, Australia and Asia. Reaches a height of 5 m, often in the form of a small tree. In culture, it rarely grows above 60 cm. Its shoots are covered with very small emerald-colored leaves that contain essential oil. The flowers of this plant are very fragrant.

In warm regions, myrtle is grown as a raw material for the production of essential oil. Also, some of its species are used in cooking.

This plant lends itself perfectly to formation, therefore it is very popular in room culture. Such a tree is relatively easy to grow in the bonsai style.

For lovers of light and natural aromas, myrtle is best suited: it helps to improve indoor air, improve the atmosphere, and its leaves are used as a medicine. In addition, it is grown to create a bonsai tree. And among the variety of varieties, you can choose suitable ones for both beginners and experienced flower growers: care is not difficult, but you should still remember some features.

Myrtle - plant features

The homeland of myrtle is the Mediterranean, but it also grows in North Africa (in Europe it freezes after the first frost). Depending on the variety, a heat-loving plant in the form of an evergreen shrub in these parts reaches a height of 3.5 m, due to which it is grown as garden culture in tubs or open ground. The bush is even cut to give the crown the desired shape.

A bright representative of the family is ordinary myrtle. It is a shrub up to 2 m high with dark green leathery leaves and small white or pink fragrant flowers. The fruits are edible black berries, on which the flower calyx is attached.

After flowering on the myrtle, dark fruits of a rounded or elliptical shape with seeds are formed.

There are many varieties of plants in the myrtle family. Interestingly, eucalyptus is also included in it. However, only a few varieties are suitable for the home. Caring for them is simple, but they need to create acceptable conditions, such as high humidity, ventilation and regular watering.

Indoor varieties

Despite modest diversity suitable varieties, the choice of myrtle for the home is, however, even more limited due to supply. The optimal way out is not to purchase in stores, but to grow cuttings from plants that have taken root with friends. If there is a choice, then it is better to pay attention to the varieties described below. They differ in the shape and size of the leaves, flower, fruit, and are also considered the most unpretentious and compact varieties:

1. Alhambra - dense, leathery leaves, white fruits and flowers.
2. Microfill - bonsai with small leaves.
3. Flore Pleno - characterized by fluffy, double flowers.
4. Tarentina is a fast-growing tree with small leaves and abundant flowering (for example, Tarentina Granada, Tarentina Variegada, etc.).
5. Boethica is a slow growing tree, its trunk twists over time and has a rich cinnamon hue.

It is noteworthy that all of the listed varieties belong to the common myrtle species.

Photo gallery: home types of myrtle

Myrtle lends itself well to formation, so it is relatively easy to grow it in the bonsai style.

But the most original trees will come out of the Boethica variety and dwarf Microphylla: it is convenient to form their crown and trunk due to the slow growth and pliability of the shoots.

Landing and transplant

Transplantation of adult myrtle is best done once every 3-4 years, and young plants are transplanted annually in the spring. When transplanting myrtle, it is impossible to deepen the root neck of the plant: this can lead to various diseases or rot damage. Be sure to lay out at the bottom of the pot good layer drainage.

General rules for transplanting myrtle:

1. Plants up to 3 years old are transplanted every year into a pot, 2–3 cm wider (enough to fit the root system) than the previous one, the roots are not cleared of the ground, they are transshipped and some fresh soil is added. And also the capacity for transplantation can be chosen based on the size of the crown of the plant: the volume of the pot should be half that of the crown of the plant.
2. Plants after 3 years are transplanted as they grow, when the roots completely entangle the land lump.
3. Transplantation is done in the spring, before flowering.
4. Young myrtle can be transplanted after flowering.
5. Every year, in adult plants, they change the top layer of soil that is not entangled with roots, cutting it off carefully with a knife and filling in a fresh portion. During this procedure root system do not process and generally try not to touch.
6. Myrtle has sensitive and tender roots, so they should not be injured during transplantation.
7. It is better to choose a ceramic and light pot so that the leaves do not get burned when its edges are heated.

If the above rules apply to both adults and the younger generation, then the following requirements are only suitable for a tree older than 3 years:

1. Prepare the ground.
2. Release the root system from some of the old soil, leaving a small clod to fill the pot with more than half of the new soil.
3. Plant in new pot. In order not to damage the roots, you can wash them in warm water.
4. The plant is not deepened, for this they make a mark of the old ground level on the trunk.
5. Fill the voids with new soil.
6. Leave the plant alone for a few days.
7. Watering is acceptable after 7-15 days.
8. Start fertilizing myrtle no earlier than 1 month after transplantation.

Young myrtle trees are transplanted in the same way, but leaving more land on the roots and choosing soil with a different composition: a mixture of peat and coarse sand

For adult plants, a slightly acidic ready-made soil is purchased or mixed:

• peat;
• sod land;
• coarse sand.

Myrtle recommend slightly acidic soil Ph 6–6.5, all universal purchased soils have such acidity. The main thing is that the soil is loose, it passes water well. Water should not stagnate. Be sure to have good drainage at the bottom. Water for irrigation and spraying must be defended, if it is very hard, then it can be acidified.

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Expanded clay is usually used as drainage, but perlite is considered more effective, which can be mixed into the soil. Before use, the soil is sterilized and treated with fungicidal substances to avoid fungal infections.

Myrtle Care

Caring for myrtle differs little from the standard. It is important to remember that he loves warmth during periods of activity, moisture and Fresh air.

Table: conditions for keeping myrtle depending on the season

Watering and feeding

When the myrtle grows and blooms, it is abundantly watered with settled water at room temperature. Chlorine is detrimental to delicate roots, even a short contact with it will lead to sad consequences. The frequency of watering depends on many factors, but its need is determined by the condition of the soil: it is not allowed to dry completely. However, excessive watering guarantees acidification of the soil, rotting of the roots: the tree will throw off its leaves and stop developing.

Spraying (or periodic showers) will help to cope with drooping leaves, restore their elasticity and bright color. And also these procedures are the prevention of many diseases and the appearance of pests. Spray myrtle during the period of activity every day or several times a day. To facilitate care and provide suitable air humidity, which should be high, a humidifier is placed in the room or expanded clay is placed in the pot tray and watered. Spraying gives a short-term improvement in conditions: as soon as the moisture evaporates from the leaves, the myrtle will feel its lack.

Humidity can be raised by placing the pot with the plant on a pallet with wet expanded clay, just make sure that the bottom of the pot does not touch the expanded clay - that is, put the pot on the tray, and then put them on the pallet with wet expanded clay. Also, after transplanting, you should keep the plant under a transparent bag. It is necessary to make a hole in it for fresh air access, and make sure that mold does not form.

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The room in which myrtle grows is regularly ventilated, taking the plant itself to another room, where it will be protected from hypothermia.

This plant needs fresh air, but it is afraid of drafts and extreme cold.

Myrtle grows in direct sunlight. However, in the midday heat in the warm season, he is provided with protection, especially when he is on an open balcony.

Fertilizers help the tree grow, but they are used with caution. If you add a little humus when transplanting into the soil, then until the summer you can forget about ready-made formulations. In other cases, myrtle is fed with complex fertilizers in the spring, and after the beginning of flowering and until its end with nitrogen. This plant also perceives top dressing of roots or leaves in the form of spraying.

Flowering and fruiting period

Myrtle usually blooms in late spring or early summer. This period lasts about 2 months. With its onset, increase the amount of watering and the frequency of spraying.

For fruits to appear, insects are needed, however, at home, pollination in this way is almost impossible., Therefore, this is done manually with a brush

With active pruning and crown formation, the myrtle trunk does not bloom. If the appearance of the crown does not bother you, then you can speed up and intensify this process: then stop pruning and apply nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers.

For intensive flowering, myrtle is planted in a cramped pot so that it does not waste energy on the growth of shoots and the development of the root system.

rest period

Myrtle needs a rest period in winter to gain strength for the next season of rapid growth and intensive flowering. If in summer and warm spring the best place for it is a balcony, loggia, outdoor garden, then in winter an adult plant feels better at a temperature of 6–12 ° C and without additional illumination. If the myrtle is left to winter in a warm room with normal lighting, then it is regularly sprayed, but watering is still reduced.

During the dormant period, which lasts from December to the end of February, watering is significantly reduced to 1-2 times a month and any top dressing is excluded. The plant is prepared gradually for the dormant period: they begin to lower the temperature in the room in advance and reduce the volume and frequency of watering.

But these rules do not apply to plants that are less than 3 years old: in winter they are in a warm and lit room with additional lighting.

Stem and crown formation

To make the shape of the myrtle beautiful, it is periodically cut off. The procedure and methods for forming a trunk or crown depend on the variety, but this is always done in early spring or after flowering has ended.

In summer, it is permissible to remove a few extra branches. If you do not trim the crown of the myrtle, then it takes on a pyramidal shape.

Shoots can be bent and tied up, entangling with soft wire, but with care

Pinching is relevant in spring and in young plants during the period of activity. This will make the crown wider, so it is better to cut young branches short enough.

Video: tree formation

Bonsai at home

Many are addicted to this extraordinary activity, and myrtle is perfect for the formation of bonsai. It is advisable to choose slow-growing and dwarf varieties (for example, Boethica or Microfilla). To form the crown, pinch the top leaves regularly, cut off unnecessary branches, preventing flowering. It is then that the crown will be lush and dense, and its shape will be compact and correspond to the given one.

So, the Boethics barrel can be directed in different directions: it is malleable, but you should not pinch it, because there will be creases

A myrtle bonsai pot should be flat and wide, with low walls. To avoid drying out of the soil and add decorativeness, moss is placed on the top layer of soil or mulched.

A pot mismatch can create obstacles to the normal functioning of the root system, which will lead to the quick death of the tree.

Mistakes in care

When growing myrtle, various problems arise, often associated with improper maintenance of the plant. Below are the most common causes the "unhealthy look" of your plant.

Table: improper care: problems and their solutions

Often you have to resort to emergency resuscitation of a plant (in particular, a dried one):

1. Carefully remove the plant.
2. Immerse its roots in settled warm water for several hours.
3. Place the myrtle in the pot.
4. Cover with foil.
5. Ventilate at least 1 time per day, preventing the soil from sour.
6. Add complex fertilizers for ornamental foliage plants.

When the myrtle recovers, the film must be removed. Next, you should review the terms of its content.

Diseases and pests, methods of treatment

Myrtle becomes vulnerable to pests if the conditions of detention are violated.

Table: list of main pests and diseases, measures to combat them

Photo gallery: signs of affected plants

If the choice is between vermiculite and perlite, give preference to the first: it is not dusty and has useful elements for plant nutrition.

Cuttings are planted in a small pot (plastic cups are also suitable) with prepared soil.

Plant the cuttings to a depth of 2.5–3 cm, remembering to compact the soil at the base

Rooting cuttings are expected within 1-2 months.

As a rule, plants grown from cuttings bloom only in the second or third year.

Reproduction by seeds

A myrtle tree obtained from seeds will delight you with flowers no earlier than 4 years later.

In addition, it should be borne in mind that seeds have a tendency to reduce germination after one year of storage.

How to grow myrtle from seeds:

Myrtle grown from seeds grows slowly.

Seed stratification

Few people subject plant seeds to stratification, although this is often required. So what is this "beast"?

Stratification is the preparation of a plant embryo for future germination without loss: keeping the plant in a humid environment at a low temperature and further planting in relatively warm soil. Without pre-cooling, the seed can simply rot in the ground.

Typically, such seed preparation is carried out as follows:

1. Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours.
2. Prepare a container with wet cotton or paper swabs, on which the seeds are laid out.
3. Seeds in this form are placed in the refrigerator; the temperature should be within 1-5 o C.
4. Withstand 1.5-2 months in this state.

To increase the effectiveness, Zircon is added to the water for primary soaking (1 drop per 300 ml of water). This solution must be infused for at least 16 hours. It is suitable for use only for 3 days at an air temperature of 18–25 ° C.

Before soaking the seeds, the container with the Zircon solution is shaken.

Possible problems during germination

Often, when growing plants from seeds, a number of “what if” questions arise:

• seeds do not germinate;
• abundant condensate caused the formation of mold;
• sprouts wither, etc.

For example, seeds may not germinate for several reasons: unviable old seed, excessively deep sowing, cold, oversaturated soil, etc. If in the first case you are absolutely helpless, then the second and third are the work of your hands: consider the specifics of planting myrtle seeds and do not forget about drainage and ventilation of the greenhouse.

If mold has formed under the glass, take immediate action:

1. Reduce watering by about 30%.
2. Mulch the soil with minerals.
3. Treat seedlings, soil and glass with fungicides.

Perhaps the situation is aggravated by acidic soil. Then chalk is added to the soil at the rate of about 50 g per 1 kg of land (it can also be replaced with wood ash in the same proportions).

In any case, try to follow the recommendations for care in order to avoid problematic "what to do" in the future.

Exported several centuries ago to Europe, myrtle has taken root well in homes and feels great. Today, there are about a hundred species of myrtle tree, of which ordinary myrtle and all its varieties are suitable for growing at home. In order for beautiful plants with such an amazing and rich history to please the eye, you should give them a little attention: simple care with abundant watering.

Myrtle is a very ancient symbol. Even in the days of the Roman tribunes, it was customary to wear wreaths from this plant on the head. It is now a tradition for English brides to include a small sprig of myrtle in their bridal bouquet.

The aroma of the plant is very pleasant, it contains in large numbers essential oils, which are highly valued in the production of perfumes and in treatment with folk remedies. Growing myrtle at home is not only interesting, but also very useful.

Reproduction of myrtle

The main method of reproduction is cuttings. It makes it possible to preserve the varietal trait of the mother plant. In addition, myrtle is grown from seeds.

Branches suitable for cuttings lateral non-flowering shoots. Optimal size the handle is ten centimeters. At the bottom, the leaves should be cut off, and the resulting cut should be treated with a special preparation that stimulates the formation of roots.

Prepared cuttings are planted in moist soil. Ideally, this mixture quartz sand and high peat. An important condition is compliance with the soil temperature, it should not be below 25 degrees Celsius. From above, the shoots are covered with glass or plastic wrap. Rooting occurs within a month. Then they need to be seated in separate containers.

propagating myrtle with seeds, there is a possibility of loss of varietal characteristics of the plant. planting material placed on top of a moist substrate and sprinkled on top with a small layer of soil. Its composition is the same as for cuttings, only at will. instead of sand, you can take vermiculite. After sowing, the container must be covered with polyethylene or glass. The optimum temperature for seed germination is from 18 to 20 degrees Celsius. After fourteen days, shoots will begin to appear. Seedlings should be dived into separate containers after the first pair of leaves appears.

It should be noted that the process diving myrtle is poorly tolerated. For some time, its growth stops, so it is very important to provide young seedlings good care. Flowering myrtle, grown from seeds, will start in 5 years after the first seeds have hatched.

tree transplant

Myrtle is a slow growing plant, so it is not often transplanted. For young plants, this is done annually, for more mature ones, no more than once every three years. In this case, each time you should choose a larger pot. The best container is one in which, after watering the plant in the morning, the soil remains moist until the evening. The most suitable time for this procedure is winter. Just then, the myrtle begins a period of rest.

Before transplanting the myrtle, watering is completely stopped until the earthen coma dries. This is necessary in order to be able to remove the plant from the pot without difficulty.

Holding the tree with one hand, turn the pot over with the other. Practiced by experienced flower growers treatment of myrtle roots with a stimulant, then he gets on well.

A drainage layer is laid at the bottom of the selected container, then a layer of expanded clay and only then a prepared soil mixture. The tree is placed in a pot and sprinkled with soil. After that, it is necessary to water the plant well and put it in a place where the light does not fall.

The composition of the soil mixture should contain:

• Three parts of sod land;
• Three pieces of peat;
• Two parts of good leaf humus;
• Two parts of sand.

Cannot be deposited manure humus into the earth mixture. The substrate must be slightly acidic.

plant pruning

Highly important element Myrtle care is pruning. The procedure is quite simple, but you can’t do without it, because the tree looks much more attractive if its crown is well-groomed and carefully formed.

Plant pruning is also used to stimulate the growth of lateral branches. By making such manipulations with young shoots, over time, an original form of myrtle with a very aesthetic appearance can be created.

We should not forget that some leaves that negatively affect the appearance of the tree are carefully plucked off.

Features of flowering

Myrtle blooms in July, so pruning not recommended in spring. It is best to produce it after the tree has faded. During this period, the plant must be carefully looked after: timely and in sufficient quantities to water, provide constant access to fresh air. Depending on the variety, myrtle flowers can be found singly in leaf axils or collected in voluminous brushes. Basically they are all white, consisting of six or four petals.

Top dressing and fertilizer

The myrtle tree is very fond of top dressing and needs them. In the summer, fertilizer should be applied every week or once every fourteen days. Ideal for these purposes are special mixtures for indoor flowers which can be bought at any specialized store. Phosphorus-containing dressings good effect on the flowering of myrtle. It will be frequent and continuous. Fertilizers, which contain nitrogen, help to maintain the small size of the tree.

Rules for watering an evergreen tree

Myrtle in the summer is watered abundantly. You also need to make sure that the earthen ball is not too waterlogged. daily need spray leaves with a spray bottle. When the weather is hot, this can be done much more often, up to several times a day.

At home, myrtle should create high humidity. To do this, you can place containers with water around the plant, or put a flowerpot on moistened expanded clay.

With the onset of winter, the tree does not need a lot of moisture. Watering at this time is carried out once every seven days and spraying no more than two times. How often you need to water or spray the myrtle depends on how warm, light and dry the room is. You need to use soft, well-settled water.

Diseases and pests, how to deal with them

The appearance of myrtle can lose its beauty due to improper care. If the plant is in direct sunlight, its leaves will soon fade, twist in the shape of a pipe. In low light the leaves will turn pale, the stems will begin to stretch. You can correct the situation by rearranging the pot in a cooler and brighter place.

myrtle it evergreen tree, so the fall of the leaves in winter signals that the plant is too hot or not enough light.

This reaction is to be expected with too intensive watering, so it should be reduced.

Most common pests

Young plants are not affected by pests. They mainly appear on adults in the winter, when the room temperature is too high.

On the windowsills of apartments and offices, you can often see a compact tree, pleasing with fragrant flowers. This is a myrtle grown since ancient times. The plant got its name from the fragrance of the flowers. "Myrtle" in Greek means "incense". In this article we will talk about caring for myrtle at home.

According to legend, myrtle grows in the Gardens of Eden. Adam managed to carry away a branch of the tree of paradise when he was cast out for sins, as a memory of life in paradise. The branch took root in the warm and humid climate of the Mediterranean, spreading around the world. Greek legends claim that the goddess Aphrodite wore a wreath of myrtle twigs. For delicate fragrant flowers, the plant has become a symbol of love, fidelity. Until now, in some countries, flowers or a sprig of myrtle, which personifies fidelity in marriage, are added to the bridal bouquet.

Under natural conditions, the flower grows in Mediterranean countries with a subtropical climate. It is an evergreen shrub or tree growing up to two to three meters. In nature, there are many varieties growing in America, Australia, and Asian countries.

It is decorated with small bright green leaves, located on the branches opposite each other. Small leaves on short cuttings are pointed towards the ends. Flowers of white, pink color grow in groups in brushes or singly. There are types of myrtle with simple or double flowers, with a different number of petals. After flowering, fruits appear on the plant - berries of the drupe species.

Myrtle among flower growers is valued not only for the appearance and aroma of flowers. Its main advantage is the presence of phytoncides and essential oils in leaves, flowers and fruits. They purify the air in the premises, which leads to a decrease in colds and an increase in efficiency, stress relief. That's why myrtle tree can be found in offices.

An infusion made from leaves and flowers is used to cleanse the face. In some countries, the leaves and fruits of myrtle are used as a seasoning for dishes.

Types and varieties of myrtle with a photo

The houseplant has the form of a small tree that does not grow more than 60 cm, which allows it to be grown among other indoor flowers.

swamp myrtle

swamp myrtle is one of the low temperature resistant. It grows no higher than one meter, has the shape of a shrub with straight branches. It differs in that it tolerates the snowy winters of Russia. The leaves fall for the winter, and in the spring the plant blooms again. Found in sphagnum bogs, lives up to fifty years. It is distinguished by the presence of poison in the plant, so it should not be allowed to get into the food of animals.

Myrtle Variegant

Myrtle variegated characterized by bright variegated leaves with amber-colored dots and stripes along the edges. Snow-white flowers with a beige tint and golden stamens have an exquisite aroma. In addition, the plant cleans the air by reducing the content of carbon dioxide. To obtain beautiful leaf color, it is necessary to provide bright light for the plant. Grown in room conditions in loose soil, using top dressing.

Mirt Hymen (Happiness of the Bride)

One of the varieties of common myrtle is called Hymen. Under natural conditions, the shrub grows up to 3-5 meters. Indoors, its height does not exceed one meter. This variety is called "the happiness of the bride", its flowering twig is used in wedding bouquets. Flowers and fruits have a strong aroma.

Myrtle large-leaved

Myrtle large-leaved also a variety of common myrtle. It has large leaves up to five centimeters long, grows up to four meters. Like other types of myrtle, it has healing effect, kills bacteria. It is used to treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, sinusitis.

Myrtle Tarentina

Differs in dwarf sizes myrtle tarentina. Its elongated leaves do not exceed one and a half centimeters. Differs in abundant flowering, miniature flowers are collected in groups. Differs in rapid growth, but in the conditions of an apartment does not grow above one meter. It develops well subject to the basic requirements for care:

• regular watering;
• spraying;
• enough sunlight.

Mirt Komunnis

Mirt Communis It has the shape of a tree, which in its habitats is also called a dead tree. At home, it grows up to five meters, it is distinguished by elongated leaves and abundant flowering.

lemon myrtle

lemon myrtle got its name from lemon flavor. The habitat is the Australian tropics. It is used to obtain essential oil, the manufacture of seasonings and spices.

Myrtle ordinary

AT indoor floriculture received the most widespread common myrtle. In nature, it grows as a shrub up to four meters high. At home, it grows in the form of a small tree. It differs from other species in oval leaves and fragrant, small flowers. This type of plant is ideal for growing bonsai.

Content at home

A native of the subtropics prefers summer temperatures in the range of 22 to 24 degrees Celsius. Summer best place for myrtle there will be a balcony with shading on hot days. Although the flower loves bright sunlight, it is still desirable to protect it during hot hours with a light curtain or screen. To achieve flowering, it is advisable to place the pot with the plant on the south side. Although it will grow on windowsills located on the east or west side.

If it is not possible to take the myrtle to the balcony or garden, then it is better to place it in the summer by an open window. It belongs to those few plants that are not afraid of drafts, but love fresh air. Therefore, the room where the pot with the plant stands should be ventilated often.

For the winter, it is desirable for the plant to provide a cool temperature, but not lower than ten degrees. If it is not possible to take it to a cool room, then the watering and spraying schedule should be adjusted. In winter, it is recommended to water once a week. In an apartment, the pot is placed close to window glass, can be fenced off with additional glass or film to protect from the flow warm air. If possible, you can try to take the myrtle to the cellar. Some flower growers thus provide the plant with a cold wintering.

If the plant remains in the apartment, then during the short winter day it needs additional illumination with special fitolamps or fluorescent lamps.

Myrtle care at home

A native of the subtropics needs a lot of light and abundant watering. But at the same time, stagnation of water in the pot should not be allowed, otherwise rotting of the roots cannot be avoided. In the winter dormant period, watering is reduced, especially if wintering takes place in cool conditions. For irrigation, settled water at room temperature is used. In summer, in addition to spraying, myrtle likes to take water treatments in the shower.

top dressing

From spring to autumn, myrtle needs regular fertilizing with mineral fertilizers. The choice depends on how you want to see the plant. If you want to get a lush green tree, then you need to use nitrogen fertilizers. If you want to achieve abundant flowering, then pay attention to complex fertilizers for flowering plants with phosphorus additives. Apply weekly throughout the summer. In winter, the number of dressings is reduced to one and a half months.

Bloom

As already mentioned, for flowering myrtle should be located on the southern windowsill. If the regime of watering and lighting is observed, but the plant does not bloom, it is necessary to look for flaws in the care.

Here are the possible reasons:

• Too much light change. If you have to move the myrtle from a place with low light to bright light, then this should be done gradually.
• Lack of fresh air.
• Lack of moisture, spraying.
• If the crown was cut in the spring, then the growth of branches will increase. But the plant will not bloom this year. In order for the myrtle to bloom the next year, crown formation should be carried out in summer, after flowering has ended, or in winter.
• For flowering, it is necessary to feed the plant with fertilizers, which contain much more phosphorus than nitrogen.
• If a plant is struck by pests or diseases, then flowering should hardly be expected from it, because all its forces are spent on survival.

To obtain seeds, pollination of flowers is necessary. In the garden, this procedure can be carried out by insects, and indoors it is necessary to pollinate it yourself - with a soft brush. Ripe seeds are dark blue in color. They can be used to grow new plants.

Planting and transplanting myrtle

transplant houseplant myrtle is produced in several cases:

• after the purchase;
• annual transplant for young plants;
• transplantation of adult plants in three to four years.

After acquiring a new plant, it is recommended to transplant into a new soil. In this case, it is necessary to check the condition of the roots and trim them if necessary. The main thing is not to overdo it, so as not to harm the plant. Consider a phased transplant:

• To remove the root system from the pot without damage, it is recommended not to water the soil for several days.
• The next step is to take up the base of the plant and, turning the pot over, remove the lump with the roots.
• Need to take a sharp wooden stick and carefully remove the soil between the roots, holding the plant with the roots down.
• The roots are treated with a Kornevin-type stimulant so that the plant takes root better.
• A new pot must be selected according to the following rule: it must be 2 times smaller in diameter than the crown of the tree. A layer of drainage (expanded clay) is poured at the bottom of the pot. Soil for myrtle can be prepared independently or purchased at flower shops.
• A small layer of soil mixture is poured over the drainage.
• The plant is carefully installed in a pot and covered with soil. It is necessary to control that the neck of the plant is not sprinkled.
• At the last stage, the earth mixture is carefully watered, then the pot is transferred to a shaded place.

The ground mixture is prepared from the following ingredients:

• peat land (30%);
• sod land (30%);
• humus (20%);
• river sand (20%).

Before use, it is desirable to neutralize the earthen substrate from possible pests.

crown formation

The formation of the crown of myrtle is divided into two types: pinching and pruning. Pinching young shoots can be done at any time. This will increase the density of the crown, but the number of flowers on the tree will decrease.

Trimming the shoots allows you to give the plant the desired shape. If you do not carry out the formation of the crown, then the crown will eventually acquire a pyramidal shape. When cutting off the top, the plant turns into a shrub. At all small plant it is necessary to give time for strengthening before engaging in the formation of the crown by circumcision.

Circumcision can be done in the spring, but then you are unlikely to wait for flowering this year. It is better to cut the shoots after flowering, in autumn or winter. Usually cut branches to 1/3 of the length.

Bonsai

Myrtle is well suited for growing bonsai. The bends of the trunk and branches are formed using a thin rigid wire, extensions, and the crown is formed by cutting and removing leaves from the lower part of the branches.

Methods for propagating myrtle at home

Myrtle can be propagated in classical ways: from cuttings or seeds.

How to grow myrtle from cuttings

This procedure is best done in winter or summer. You can use branches obtained by cutting the crown. The cuttings are cut from the lower or middle branches so that their length is about 5-8 centimeters. The lower leaves should be removed, the oblique cut is treated with a stimulant for root growth.

The cutting is planted in a mixture consisting of sand and sphagnum moss. If it is not possible to purchase moss, then coarse sand is mixed with leafy soil. The container with the cuttings is covered with a film, placed in a slightly shaded place at room temperature. Periodically, the film must be removed and the cuttings aired. Germination occurs within about a month. After the appearance of new leaves, which indicates successful rooting, you can plant the cuttings in separate pots. New plants begin to bloom in the third or fourth year.

Reproduction by seeds

Growing myrtle from seeds at home requires more time to get flowering plant, but lovers of experimentation can try.

In the prepared moistened mixture of peat and sand, the seeds are laid out at a shallow depth, sprinkled with a thin layer and covered with a film or glass.

myrtle seeds sprouted

Important! Seedlings need to be ventilated periodically.

After two weeks, sprouts appear.

After the appearance of two leaves, the seedlings are transplanted into separate pots by transshipment. Further transplantation is carried out when the roots fill the pot. Plants from seeds begin to bloom at the age of five.

care mistakes

When growing myrtle, various problems arise, often associated with improper maintenance of the plant.

• The leaves turn black. Usually associated with excessive watering. It is necessary to reduce watering and loosen the soil. You can replace the soil.
• Yellow leaves indicate a lack of moisture in the soil and air.
• Shedding of leaves can mean poor water quality or too hot a place, overdrying of the soil.
• If myrtle leaves fall off after a change of scenery, then this is an indicator of stress or insufficient watering.
• Myrtle leaves dry and curl. This indicates violations in the care, movement or insufficient watering. Sometimes myrtle sheds its leaves in winter when the air is dry. Do not despair, in the spring the plant may put up new leaves.
• The leaves have become sticky. This is a sign of damage to the shield. See next section for treatment options.

Pests

Myrtle becomes vulnerable to pests when conditions are violated. In the table we give a list of the main pests and diseases, measures to combat them.

Although growing myrtle requires almost daily attention, especially in summer, the result will please you not only appearance but also creating a family-friendly environment.

Myrtle (Myrtus) is an evergreen woody shrub with pronounced branching and small flowers of white or pink color. It is valued by modern florists for its decorative properties and ease of cultivation. The leaves of the tree are a powerful source of phytoncides that mercilessly kill pathogenic bacteria, and the flowers are a reservoir with a delicate aroma. Myrtle responds to home care with abundant flowering and rapid growth.

In the Mediterranean, the plant reaches a height of four meters, and in indoor floriculture - no more than 1 m. The spherical crown is formed from small lacquer leaves. The flowering period lasts from April to May. As a result of successful pollination, berry ovaries appear on the branches. Ripe fruits have a rich dark blue color, making the tree look especially elegant.

Myrtle ordinary - the most common species. Many cultivators have been obtained from it, differing in shape, color of flowers and berries. For home growing it is recommended to purchase the following varieties of myrtle:

AT flower shops usually come small-leaved representatives, waxy with restrained growth rates.

Variety Variegata

Hassle-free care in summer and winter

Myrtle is a light-loving plant, so experienced flower growers do not recommend growing it on northern windows. Young specimens in summer heat protect from direct sunlight to avoid leaf burns. To do this, a special reflective film with an SPF filter is attached to the glass, or the pot is moved to a window cabinet. For adults, this is not necessary. They not only react positively to bright lighting, but are not afraid of drafts, even if outside the window subzero temperature. unlike myrtle, it will not tolerate such oversights.

The dormant period of the plant is pronounced, so care in the winter and summer seasons is radically different. Myrtles are hard to tolerate heat and feel most comfortable at a minimum room temperature of +18 to +20 °C. For wintering, the plant, if possible, is sent to a cool place with a temperature of +6 to +8 ° C.

The lower the thermometer falls during the dormant period, the more magnificent the flowering will be in the first phase of the growing season.

The minimum indicator for winter maintenance is + 1 ° C. Under conditions of cool and light conditions in winter, many buds will appear on the shoots at the end of spring.

Watering and fertilizing

Growing myrtle at home, flower growers strive to recreate for him the most comfortable conditions. The shrub is moisture-loving and requires abundant watering, especially in the spring and summer. In summer, the trunk circle is laid out with sphagnum, pebbles to avoid rapid evaporation of moisture. Even a single drying of the soil in a pot will cause trouble. The tree will soon shed some of its foliage, and the rest will restore turgor for a long time. To prevent such incidents, the soil is regularly moistened. At low atmospheric humidity, the leaves of the tree dry out and curl.

For decorative leafy crops, there are many balanced top dressings based on phosphorus and nitrogen. Each of them helps to prevent a number of diseases, general weakening of the myrtle and leaf fall. Phosphorus-containing preparations are applied by the root method in liquid form every 2 weeks in accordance with the instructions. This mineral compound stimulates the formation of ovaries and fruits. Of specialized fertilizers, Kemira-combi or Universal is suitable, you can use Mortar (granules or powder), Aquarin.

When buying preparations for feeding, you need to pay attention to the fact that there is no calcium in the composition.

Nitrogen components are introduced according to the same principle as phosphorus ones. Their task is to form a strong root system, stems and crown. Nitrogen is also added to the soil in cases where leaves fall from the myrtle, and the tree itself does not grow well.

Transplant as you grow

Almost all myrtle plants grow quickly, so voluminous pots are required for planting. The size of the container must be correlated with the age of the culture and the parameters of the root system. It is better to increase the size of the pot with each transplant gradually. Despite their moisture-loving nature, myrtle plants will not tolerate stagnant water, so drainage will have to be provided at the bottom of the tank.

Suitable soil composition:

• turf,
• peat,
• humus and sand in equal proportions.

Soil containing lime is not suitable for planting. The substrate must be fertile, slightly acidic. You can buy ready-made soil for large-sized.

Transplantation of young plants up to 4 years is carried out annually, adults - 1 time in 3 years.

The change of capacity is carried out by the transshipment method. To do this, pre-prepared soil is poured into the bottom of the pot. An oilcloth is spread on the table, a tree from an old container is pulled out onto a substrate and allowed to “breathe” for a couple of hours. After that, the root system is placed in a new pot and sprinkled with earth.

Pruning: how to grow a bush with a dense crown?

It is not enough just to plant an indoor tree in order to grow correctly. He needs timely sanitary and exterior pruning. Sanitary is carried out when diseases are detected, for preventive purposes. Dry branches are cut from the bush, young shoots are pinched from the base of the trunk, the crown is examined for diseases.

Spring is the best season for a shaping haircut.

With exterior pruning, they not only form a crown, but also set the direction of growth for it:

• the cut top allows you to form a bushy tree;
• removal of lateral shoots helps to create a powerful trunk and high crown;
• excessive pinching of lateral shoots reduces the number of ovaries on the tree.

Unattended myrtle returns to its natural pyramidal shape. Video with cropping rules.

Myrtle diseases and their prevention

• crown deformation: dull mesophyll of leaves, elongated and weak shoots - in low light;
• partial or complete loss of the crown: yellowed, twisted edge, leaves dry - under the influence of direct sunlight;
• leaf fall as a result of insufficient lighting in winter.

The complete loss of the crown is a big stress for the plant. It will take more than one month for its subsequent restoration, and the plant itself may stop blooming and bearing fruit. Therefore, we must try to grow home myrtle correctly. Timely top dressing will protect domestic shrubs from premature death and infection. At risk are:

• weakened shrubs during the periods of formation of ovaries, fruiting, wintering;
• deformed seedlings after pruning, transplanting;
• plants kept in unsuitable climatic conditions(stagnant water in a pot, sunburn on leaves, dry air, high humidity);
• bushes that do not receive timely bait, growing on depleted soil.

Common myrtle diseases:

• soil fungi - plaque of a characteristic color at the base of the trunk;
• gray mold - plaque on myrtle leaves;
• leaf rotting due to malnutrition or an excess of mineral salts in the soil.

The soil fungus itself is harmless. It is involved in the process of soil formation, processing of humus, heavy soils, loam. A high content of the fungus can adversely affect the condition of the root system. To prevent the growth of plaque, flower growers recommend loosening the soil from time to time.

Gray mold rarely affects, since this plant contains disinfecting essential oils in its leaves. If gray spots are found on the crown, the infected foliage is cut off, the tree itself is treated with insecticides and soapy water.

Infected shrubs can shed their leaves, dry out on the vine, stop growing, and stop bearing fruit. Among the pests that are dangerous for myrtle, note:

Adult whiteflies are caught by hand, the lesions are treated with a solution of laundry soap. The branches are sprayed with Sunmite, Omite. It is worth noting that any drugs are harmless to the larvae, so preventive treatment is repeated for a month every 2 weeks.

At proper care, timely pruning, generous feeding, myrtle will delight with beautiful forms throughout the growing season.