Planting and caring for myrtle (in brief)
- Bloom: in June-July.
- Lighting: bright sunlight until noon, then - bright diffused light (south, west and east windows).
- Temperature: in summer - usual for residential premises, in winter - 5-10 ˚C.
- Watering: in summer - frequent and plentiful, in the cool season, watering is reduced.
- Air humidity: increased. Daily spraying of the leaves is recommended, especially in the heat.
- top dressing: from March to August once a week with complex mineral fertilizers.
- rest period: winter; in cool conditions - up to three months, in normal conditions - a month and a half.
- Transfer: young plants - annually, adults as needed.
- pruning: after flowering or early spring.
- reproduction: cuttings, rarely seeds.
- Pests: scale insects, aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, mealybugs.
- Diseases: root rot.
Read more about growing myrtle below.
Room myrtle - description
Myrtle, numbering from forty to a hundred species according to various sources, in its natural habitat can grow up to three meters in height, and indoor myrtle under the most favorable conditions, it reaches only a meter. Usually myrtle at home is a tree with a round crown, 30-60 cm tall. Small leathery, as if polished myrtle leaves are located on the shoots rarely alternately and oppositely on short petioles, they have an elongated shape, the tops of the leaves are pointed. Flowers, simple or double, either solitary or collected in a brush. The fruit is a nut or berry drupe. It is curious that myrtle plants include such valuable plants for mankind as tea tree, eucalyptus, clove tree.
Myrtle flower - growing from seeds
How to propagate myrtle seeds at home? At the beginning of spring, myrtle seeds are sown on the surface of a substrate consisting of equal parts of sand and peat, in a container 7-10 cm deep, sprinkled on top with a layer of the same substrate 3-5 mm thick and, covered with glass, kept at a temperature of about 20 ºC, ventilating and moistening the crops, as well as removing condensation from the glass. Seedlings appear in a week or two, and when the seedlings have 2-3 true leaves, they are dived into the same substrate in individual pots so that the root neck remains above the soil surface. A month after picking, seedlings are fed with nitrogen fertilizer of a weak consistency. However, amateur breeders should be aware that myrtle grown from seeds:
- a) will bloom not earlier than in 4-5 years;
- b) is unlikely to retain varietal characteristics.
In addition, the germination of myrtle seeds sharply decreases after a year of storage, and it is problematic to obtain them, since this will require artificial pollination of the plant.
Myrtle care at home
How to grow myrtle at home.
Caring for myrtle at home includes watering, pruning and feeding the plant, as well as creating optimal or at least necessary conditions. Houseplant myrtle prefers southern, western and eastern window sills, indulgent to drafts, temperature extremes and direct sunlight. Moreover, if there is no sun, there will be no flowering of the myrtle. In summer, myrtle prefers outdoor life, in winter, the plant needs coolness - 5-10 degrees Celsius, and a glazed unheated balcony would be the best place for it.
water myrtle in the warm season, it is necessary abundantly and often, without waiting for the top layer to dry, but excess moisture must be drained from the pan so as not to provoke root rot. Insufficient or infrequent watering can cause the plant to shed its leaves. With the onset of cold weather, watering is reduced, but if the plant winters in a room with working heaters, it will have to be watered as plentifully as in summer. In addition, it will be necessary to spray the leaves of the plant with water at least once a day, since the myrtle needs high humidity air, and you need to remember this in winter, if the temperature in the room with myrtle is above 15 ºC, and in summer. Water for water procedures and irrigation should be separated or passed through a filter.
Once a week or two from March to August, the myrtle needs to be fertilized with fertilizers. If you are growing bonsai from myrtle or you are not interested in its flowering, then feed the plant with a complex fertilizer for ornamental foliage plants, but if you want to see the myrtle bloom, then apply fertilizer for flowering plants.
Myrtle has a pronounced dormant period, the duration of which determines the location of the plant: if the myrtle hibernates in the cool or on the northern windowsill, then it can rest for up to three months, and if it is warm and in bright light, then only for a month and a half.
Myrtle cutting.
Caring for myrtle also involves giving its crown the desired shape. The formation of myrtle depends on what you grow it for. Many people like myrtle in the form of a standard tree with a neat compact crown, but there are people who do not care how the plant looks, as long as it “blooms and smells”. In any case, one should not get too carried away with pruning the lateral shoots of young plants or pinching them excessively. On the other hand, myrtle grows fast, regenerates easily, and you always have the option to change your plans for it. appearance. The main thing is that the formation of the crown should be done in early spring or after flowering.
Home myrtle - transplant.
Young plants are transplanted annually, adult myrtles - as needed, which is determined in this way: if the freshly watered soil dries out within a day, then it's time to increase the amount of substrate, and, therefore, a larger pot will be needed. The pot is chosen only a couple of centimeters in diameter wider than the previous one. It is better to transplant in the spring, using the method of transferring a plant from an old container to a new one, since it does not injure the root system.
Reproduction of myrtle
If you want to start breeding myrtle, then The best way for this, cuttings, because it allows you to save the species and varietal characteristics of the plant. In addition, this is a much more reliable method of propagation than seed, and plants from cuttings bloom faster than those from seeds - in about three years. Therefore, if you want to grow a myrtle tree in your home, you do not need to buy seeds that quickly lose their ability to germinate, just do not hesitate to ask your friends for a stalk after a formative pruning. The best result is given by semi-lignified cuttings. current year. You can take cuttings from January to February, or in July, and it is better if they are from the lower or middle part of the crown. Remove the lower leaves from a segment of the shoot 8-10 cm long, and shorten the upper ones by a third, and the largest ones by half. Treat the lower cut with rootstock or heteroauxin and plant for rooting in a mixture of leafy soil (one part) and coarse sand (half part), or sphagnum and sand in the same proportions. It is better to take a low and wide container for rooting, and it is advisable to cover the stalk from above with a glass jar. Rooting occurs at a temperature of 17-20 ºC in a shady place. From time to time, the jar is removed for ventilation and so that the soil does not turn sour. Usually the roots grow within a month, and the rooted cutting is transplanted into a pot with a diameter of 7 cm in the same soil mixture. After a year, transplant it into a container with a diameter of 9 cm in the soil for an adult myrtle and take care of it like an adult plant.
Pests and diseases of myrtle
Insects and diseases of myrtle.
Myrtle is harmed by mealybugs, whiteflies, scale insects, aphids, thrips and spider mites, which appear as a result of a chronic violation of the rules for keeping the plant. The first five pests are destroyed by four-time treatment of myrtle with actara or actellik within a month. Spider mites and thrips should preferably be washed off with a shower before treatment with the same actellik. But rather than poison the myrtle with insecticides, it is better to prevent the invasion of insects by observing very simple rules for caring for the plant.
The myrtle is dry.
A frequently asked question from our readers: “What to do if the myrtle has dried up?” should sound differently: “What to do so that the myrtle does not dry out?” And the answer to this question is very simple: strictly observe the rules for keeping myrtle. If myrtle leaves dry up, then you have not taken into account any of the recommendations of plant care experts. Insufficient air humidity adversely affects the condition of the foliage, especially if in winter the myrtle is in a room with a temperature above 18 ºC, where heating appliances, not only heating, but also drying up the air. Myrtle also dries out if you forget to water it. Remember the rules for caring for a plant and follow them strictly, because it is much easier to prevent the death of a plant by taking preventive measures than to resuscitate it later. Water and spray the myrtle regularly with settled water, keep it on a tray with wet pebbles, but so that the bottom of the pot does not stand in the water.
Myrtle properties and signs
Myrtle properties.
The leaves, young shoots and fruits of myrtle contain essential oil and active substances that have a high antibacterial effect. Soviet scientists have developed a medicinal preparation - myrtle tincture, which is prepared from the mature leaves of the plant. and experience traditional medicine, and modern Scientific research confirm that the use of myrtle in the treatment of such serious diseases as diabetes mellitus, pneumonia and chronic bronchitis has high efficiency. Myrtle tincture successfully copes with antibiotic-resistant strains of tubercle bacillus and staphylococcal infection, as well as purulent otitis media and a heavy smoker's cough. In addition, the drug from the leaves of myrtle is a natural stimulant of important life processes that increase efficiency and endurance to stress, it has no side effects and is prescribed even for children from one year of age. Doctors and botanists recommend keeping myrtle in bedrooms and nurseries because it makes the air in them cleaner and healthier. One plant is able to purify the air of bacteria in a room of 20 square meters. meters.
Myrtle - signs.
Myrtle has long been considered a strong amulet. But the plant will fulfill this mission only under two conditions:
- if it was planted by a woman - the mistress of the house;
- if the owners of the plant are proud of their myrtle.
The signs of European peoples say: if myrtle grows in a house, there will be peace and love in it, but if the plant dies and is thrown away, happiness will leave this house along with the dead plant. Myrtle is not suitable for offices - he needs a family hearth.
But Muslims do not keep myrtle in their homes, believing that it dooms young boys and girls living in the house to loneliness.
Myrtle species
Common myrtle (Myrtus communis).
In home floriculture, common myrtle (Myrtus communis) is most often grown with a short branched trunk covered with exfoliating scales of red-brown bark. The leaves are green, oval-lanceolate, glossy, leathery, with a pleasant aroma. The flowers are white or pale pink with protruding stamens, the fruits are red-black berries. Blooms from June to August. Popular cultivars: "Tarentina" - a compact bush with berries smaller than the original form, but there are much more of them than ordinary myrtle; in the variegated variety green leaves creamy white pattern.
Myrtle lush (Myrtus apiculata).
Lush myrtle (Myrtus apiculata) is also interesting - a bush or tree with exfoliating brown bark, under which the trunk is creamy. white color. The leaves are dark green, elliptical, matte. White single flowers bloom in July-August, black-red fruits are edible.
Myrtle hekven (Myrtus chequen)
- a tree with shiny green leaves with a wrinkled edge. This species is the most stable of myrtles.
Ralph's myrtle (Myrtus ralfii)
- an upright shrub with pinkish flowers and red edible berries. It has a variegated variety with a white-cream border around the edge of the leaves.
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 medicinal product. In addition, it is grown to create a bonsai tree. And among the variety of varieties, you can choose suitable for both beginners and for experienced flower growers: care is not difficult, but it is still worth remembering 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 a garden crop in tubs or in open field. 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:
- Alhambra - dense, leathery leaves, white fruits and flowers.
- Microfill - bonsai with small leaves.
- Flore Pleno - characterized by fluffy, double flowers.
- Tarentina is a fast growing tree with small leaves and abundant flowering(for example, Tarentina Granada, Tarentina Variegada, etc.).
- Boethica is a slow growing tree, its trunk twists over time and has saturated shade cinnamon.
It is noteworthy that all of the listed varieties belong to the common myrtle species.
Photo gallery: home types of myrtle
Myrtle Alhambra is characterized by abundant flowering and fragrant fruits. 
On sale, it is easiest to find a variety such as Microfilla double flowers- perhaps the only thing that distinguishes Flore Pleno from other varieties 
Myrtle Tarentina Variegada is decorated with elegant leaves with white edging Myrtle Boethica has large leaves, larger than other species (6–7 cm, while the standard is 1–2 cm), with a pointed end
According to experts, any variety of common myrtle is suitable for bonsai.
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 to rot. Be sure to lay out at the bottom of the pot good layer drainage.
General rules for transplanting myrtle:
- Plants up to 3 years old are transplanted every year into a pot 2-3 cm wider (enough to fit root system) than the previous one, the roots are not cleared of the ground, they do transshipment and add some fresh soil. 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.
- Plants after 3 years are transplanted as they grow, when the roots completely entangle the land lump.
- Transplantation is done in the spring, before flowering.
- Young myrtle can be transplanted after flowering.
- Every year, adult plants change upper layer soil that is not entangled with roots, cutting it off gently with a knife and filling in a fresh portion. During this procedure, the root system is not processed and in general they try not to affect it.
- Myrtle has sensitive and tender roots, so they should not be injured during transplantation.
- 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:
- Prepare the ground.
- 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.
- Plant in new pot. In order not to damage the roots, you can wash them in warm water.
- The plant is not deepened, for this they make a mark of the old ground level on the trunk.
- Fill the voids with new soil.
- Leave the plant alone for a few days.
- Watering is acceptable after 7-15 days.
- Start fertilizing myrtle no earlier than 1 month after transplantation.
Young myrtle trees are transplanted in the same way, but leaving more earth 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, blooms, then it is abundantly watered with settled water. 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 occasional 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 for him the best place- balcony, loggia, outdoor garden, then in winter mature 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 bole 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 Microfill). 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):
- Carefully remove the plant.
- Immerse its roots in settled warm water for several hours.
- Place the myrtle in the pot.
- Cover with foil.
- Ventilate at least 1 time per day, preventing the soil from sour.
- 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
| Disease or pest | signs | Treatment |
|
Not amenable to treatment. | |
|
Treatment with acaricide (Fitoverm, Aktellik, Sunmite). | |
|
|
|
| Sticky leaves. |
|
|
|
|
Photo gallery: signs of affected plants
When affected by a scale insect, a sticky liquid (the so-called pad) serves as an excellent haven for the development of a sooty fungus. Leaf aphids quickly weaken young plants, sucking out their cell juice. One of the main signs of the presence of a whitefly is the presence of a sticky coating - honeydew 
At fungal disease plants, most often the best way out is to isolate the affected plant or to destroy it. The presence of a spider mite is indicated by the presence of small white dots on the leaves (mainly on the underside) and the presence of a thin cobweb braiding the plants (or parts thereof)
Reproduction of myrtle
Myrtle is propagated mainly by cuttings; propagation by seeds is undesirable: plants lose their varietal characteristics (shredding of leaves and flowers). In addition, cuttings are more reliable way: seeds lose their ability to germinate very quickly.
cuttings
Propagation by cuttings should be carried out no more than twice a year: first in winter (in January-February), and then you should focus on spring or mid-summer (July). For quick rooting, you can use stimulants.
To prevent evaporation of moisture, leaves are removed from the bottom of the cutting, and the remaining ones are shortened.
Stages of propagation by cuttings:
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 the plant embryo for future germination without loss: keeping the plant in humid environment at low temperatures 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:
- Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours.
- Prepare a container with wet cotton or paper swabs, on which the seeds are laid out.
- Seeds in this form are placed in the refrigerator; the temperature should be within 1-5 o C.
- 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:
- Reduce watering by about 30%.
- Mulch the soil with minerals.
- 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 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. To make beautiful plants with such an amazing and rich history pleasing to the eye, you should pay a little attention to them: easy care with abundant watering.
Myrtle, which is easy to care for at home, is evergreen. In the Mediterranean countries, it is grown as a shrub or small tree, and in cold climates has become a houseplant. Myrtle is often seen as a gift for the bride, which heralds a successful marriage.
Types and varieties of flower
Several types of myrtle are grown at home.
The most popular are:
- Common myrtle or indoor myrtle is the most common species. The trunk of the plant is not long, well developed. The bark is exfoliating. Its color is red-brown. Small leathery leaves have a rich green hue with a very pleasant aroma.
- Tarentina is a compact shrub.
- Alhambra - forms fruit-berries and is distinguished by very dense green foliage;
- Variegata - the plant stands out among others with its very variegated foliage.
If desired, more exotic forms of myrtle can be found on sale, but the most common ones are very beautiful when grown properly.
Myrtle - growing features
Myrtle at home is grown in two ways - from seeds or apical cuttings. Those plants that are commercially available are most often obtained by cuttings. At home, if you want to grow myrtle yourself, you can use both methods.
With the help of seeds
Reproduction of myrtle by seeds is not the most effective, but it is still used by amateur flower growers. Seeds are planted in early spring in a pre-prepared light substrate, which is made up of peat and sand, taken in equal amounts. Soil is poured into the planting box with a layer of 10 cm. Next, seeds are sown on it and covered with soil 4 cm thick on top. After that, the soil is qualitatively moistened and the box is covered with glass. The temperature of seed germination should not be lower than +20 degrees. To ventilate the glass, it is necessary to raise it once a day for 4-5 minutes. Seeds germinate in about 2 weeks. If the seedlings are excessively thick, they are thinned out.
Plants dive when 3 leaves appear on them.
30 days after germination, the first fertilizing with nitrogen fertilizer is carried out in a low concentration. Subsequent top dressing is carried out once a month, while complex mineral top dressing and organic fertilizer alternate.
cuttings
Cuttings allow you to get a new plant that will fully retain its parental properties. Cuttings can only be cut from a healthy myrtle. You should not take too young shoots for them. For cuttings, only semi-lignified shoots are used. The cut, which is made at an angle of 45 degrees, is processed with root to stimulate the formation of roots. After the cutting is placed in the ground, which must always be moist. When everything goes right, the cutting takes root and a new plant begins to develop. If you miss a moment, and the soil in the pot dries out, then the stalk will not be able to release the roots, even after the restoration of soil moisture. After rooting, care will be the same as for an adult plant.
An evergreen shrub called myrtle is known to almost everyone. There are many legends about this plant; it is mentioned in the legend of Adam, who, after being expelled from Paradise, came to earth, taking with him a branch of this tree from the Garden of Eden. Ancient myths repeatedly mention the myrtle wreath of Aphrodite. For many peoples, myrtle was considered a symbol of peace, love, kindness and recognition, and personified moral purity and sublimity. Today, this flower is grown in any corner of the planet, if necessary, creating for it favorable conditions for development.
motherland exotic plant considered the Mediterranean and the Middle East. In nature, myrtle reaches a height of three meters and adorns parks and gardens in warm regions. And in countries with a temperate climate, myrtle will not be able to develop on the street, so it is grown at home.
Description of myrtle and its features
Description
Myrtle is an evergreen tree-like shrub and belongs to the Myrtle family. Today there are more than 100 varieties of this plant. The leaves of each of them have their own shade and shape; fruits also differ in color.
grown at home common myrtle, which decorates the interior like an ornamental tree. Plant height varies between 30–50 cm; occasionally the tree reaches 1 meter.
Straight branching stems and the opposite arrangement of small oblong leaves on them form a rounded crown. AT flowering period the plant pleases with white, light pink or cream flowers, which are simple and double and are located on long pedicels. Blue-black berries with a pleasant smell appear closer to autumn. Myrtle can be propagated by cuttings or seeds that are in ripe fruits.
Peculiarities
The leaves of the shrub are known as a source of essential oils. The content of phytoncides in them contributes to air purification in room. They have a beneficial effect on the mood and performance of a person. Myrtle shrub is purchased even for the prevention of colds and to reduce allergic reactions.
Many girls and women are familiar with the healing properties essential oil from myrtle, which helps in cleansing and maintaining skin health. It is added to the compositions of creams, gels and shampoos, mixed with other oils.
Myrtle berries are used as food, and also added to medicinal tinctures.
It should be remembered that the myrtle shrub can be dangerous. At sensitive people it causes bouts of nausea and headaches due to its pleasant but strong smell. Yes, and other people are advised to keep it in the kitchen or in the living room, but not in the bedroom.
Necessary conditions for growing myrtle of an ordinary house and caring for it
Common myrtle does not require complex care, but, like any plant, it needs certain conditions for development.
flower prefers moderate temperature at + 21–25 degrees. It is better to grow a plant on the windowsill of an east, west or south window. Insolation will not harm the shrub; myrtle needs sunlight. But for indoor myrtle, the aggressive sun will be dangerous, from which it should be protected at least with a curtain. On the northern windowsill, the shrub slows down its development; flowering is not observed in this direction.
Myrtle is not afraid of drafts. A well-ventilated room will be favorable for him.
Indoor shrub needs high humidity, which distinguishes his homeland with a subtropical climate. In warm seasons, the tree needs abundant watering, but with the obligatory draining of excess moisture from the pan so that the root system does not rot. spray the leaves follows every day; we must not forget to carry out the procedure on especially hot days, otherwise the plant may dry out due to the overdried substrate. Water must be defended or filtered so that there is no lime in the soil, which can kill the plant.
From the beginning of spring to the end of summer, indoor myrtle is fed with complex fertilizers every two weeks. You can use mineral and organic supplements, but in moderation.
rest period
The tree blooms from summer to autumn. When cold weather sets in, the active vegetation of the shrub slows down. The degree of watering the plant is reduced (only once a week) so that when low temperatures there was no hypothermia of the shrub. Also stop feeding the plant. Optimum temperature in winter period for him it will be + 5–10 degrees. glazed balcony without heating it will be an excellent place for wintering myrtle.
In a room with a higher temperature and a dry atmosphere, it is necessary to water the plant more often and spray its crown. If there is not enough moisture, this is expressed in wilting and dropping myrtle leaves. To restore a houseplant, you should improve care measures behind him, otherwise by the summer it will not bloom.
pruning myrtle
A beautiful and neat crown of a tree can be achieved by pruning the shoots. The shape of the crown can be any, it all depends on the wishes of the owner of the plant. Some create a whole composition, turning an ordinary shrub into an exotic and extraordinary tree.
Plant handles pruning well, which is performed every two years in the spring, when active vegetation has not yet begun. In summer, only young shoots are pinched.
Pinching and pruning of shoots should occur with additional feeding without chlorine in the composition. It is not advised to get involved in frequent cutting of myrtle: pruning can aggravate the formation of flower buds.
Myrtle transplant
A tree-like shrub is characterized by a slow growth of the root system. An adult plant is transplanted in the spring of just once every 3-4 years into a larger container. Young myrtle is transplanted annually.
The tree is transplanted by transshipment so that the root system is not injured.
Reproduction of myrtle at home
Myrtle at home is propagated in two ways:
- cuttings;
- seeds.
Plant propagation by cuttings
Rooting pot is selected low and wide. You can buy a ready-made soil mixture or cook it yourself. To do this, take leafy soil and sand in a ratio of one to two. The temperature of the finished soil should be + 18-20 degrees.
Cuttings should be cut from side shoots 7–9 cm long. lower leaves are removed. For processing the cut, Kornevin or Heteroauxin is used. The cuttings are planted in the ground and covered with a bag or glass, which must be lifted from time to time so that the plants breathe.
Rooting takes place during two to three weeks. Then the cuttings are planted in different pots.
Myrtle from seeds at home
The seed method of propagating myrtle is not as popular as cuttings. This is explained by the fact that when propagated by seeds, myrtle loses some generic characteristics. Seed germination is very slow. The first flowers should be expected only after 3-4 years.
The substrate is a mixture of peat and sand in the same ratio. The soil is poured into a pot and watered. Additionally, a fungicide can be applied. Seeds are distributed on the surface of the substrate and covered with a thin layer of earth. Having made greenhouses using glass or a bag, the pot is placed in a room with a temperature +18–21 degrees. Airing is done regularly, while maintaining the required level of humidity.
Seeds germinate in 1-2 weeks. Dive sprouts into pots occurs when they have two leaves of sufficient size. The soil is made from turf or peat land with sand. Seedlings are transplanted by transshipment.
Fertilizing starts one month after transplant plants in separate containers.
The shrub can be propagated by seeds already in February with the organization of additional illumination, then by the summer with proper care the plant will develop well.
Why myrtle dries up
Usually, drying of indoor myrtle occurs if it is not properly cared for. The main reasons for this:
Myrtle diseases
In addition to drying, myrtle can get sick from other factors.
- Excess moisture. If water is not drained from the pan, the root system begins to rot, a fungus appears in it and bacteria begin to multiply. With the rapid development of the disease, the death of the plant occurs. Therefore, it is necessary to remove excess moisture in time.
- insect pests. Aphids, scale insects and spider mites suck the juices from the plant and damage all its parts. The leaves curl or dark spots appear on them. It is necessary to frequently inspect the myrtle in order to notice the appearance of pests in time and treat the tree with an insecticide. If necessary, processing is done twice.
Proper care for myrtle at home contributes to its good development without the occurrence of diseases and abundant flowering in the summer.
Myrtle is a plant for those who love peace, comfort and tranquility. Myrtle is an evergreen shrub or tree, belongs to the Myrtle family, which has about a hundred species. Myrtle comes from the Mediterranean, in natural conditions grows in tropical and subtropical climates. In the Crimea, in the Caucasus, on the Black Sea coast, myrtle is grown in open ground as ornamental plant. In greenhouse conditions, it grows up to 2 meters, but when grown in a pot, it is modest in size. The leaves of the myrtle are small, glossy, ovoid, arranged oppositely.
The trunk is woody, branches well. Myrtle blooms are small, solitary, fragrant white flowers. They appear in the axils of the leaves, towering on a long pedicel. Blooms from early summer. Pollinate indoor myrtle with a brush. In autumn, pollinated plants bear fruit - juicy, spicy dark blue berries appear. Seeds from the fruit can be used for propagation.
Having provided the right plant, myrtle will delight with its decorative effect throughout the year. Unpretentious, can settle with you for a long time. It lends itself well to pruning, which allows you to form a beautiful crown in the form of a pyramid, a ball and other shapes.
Myrtle care at home
Watering
Home myrtle is unpretentious in care. It will take up little space, growing will not be difficult. Ensure timely watering and spraying. The plant loves moisture. During the period of active growth - in spring and summer - the soil should be constantly moist. During this period, it is also desirable to spray the leaves of the myrtle daily. Sometimes you can arrange a warm shower. Use softened settled water for watering and spraying. Reduce watering when temperatures drop. In no case do not allow the earthen coma to dry out, if this happens, then the myrtle begins to dry and fall off.
Excessive watering is another destructive extreme, fraught with root rot. Avoid stagnant water in the pan and pot.
Lighting
Myrtle likes bright light with some direct sunlight, but at midday it is better to shade a little. If the myrtle tree is constantly kept in the shade, even providing all the other care rules, it will not bloom. Drafts of myrtle are not terrible. On the contrary, air currents will better distribute favorable phytoncides.
Temperature
Will do well in cool rooms. Suitable moderate or slightly below moderate air temperature (within 18-23 ° C). To get abundant flowering, in winter, provide a cool air temperature within 6-8 ° C. In the absence of such an opportunity, wintering can also be carried out in a warmer room, but with more frequent watering and spraying.
Why does the myrtle shed its leaves?
In winter, during the operation of heating systems, the air becomes warm and dry - this can cause the myrtle leaves to fall off. Do not despair, continue to moderately water the plant and by spring it will be green again. Myrtle, which has undergone a warm winter, most likely will not bloom. In summer, myrtle can be taken out into the open air.
top dressing
For successful growth and good development, indoor myrtle needs to be fed. Once every two weeks, apply organic mineral fertilizers. Feeding is not needed during wintering.
How to prune and shape a myrtle crown
Common myrtle is usually grown in. It tolerates pruning very well. Even if the myrtle does not bloom, the formation of the crown will allow you to grow a beautiful bonsai tree. Do not expose the trunk much, because it is not very durable. Leave as many side shoots as possible. However, if you want the tree to bloom, you should not get carried away with pruning either, otherwise flower buds will not form.
Cropping myrtle on video:
Transfer
Home myrtle is able to grow for a very long time, it does not need to be renewed every few years, like many other plants, but it is still necessary to transplant. Do this before the start of active growth - in early spring. Young plants will need an additive every year, adults - as needed (every 2-3 years). A suitable substrate would be a mixture: soddy soil + humus soil + peat + sand, mix in proportions 2:1:1:1. Be sure to lay drainage at the bottom of the pot.
Growing myrtle from seeds
It is possible to propagate by cuttings. During seed propagation, varietal characteristics may be lost if the seeds are taken from hybrid bushes. Only fresh seeds germinate well. Rinse the seeds without pericarp in a weak solution of potassium permanganate, dry.
Plant in pots using light soil. The seeding depth is 0.5 cm. Cover with film or glass to form a greenhouse effect. Place in a warm, well-lit place, avoiding direct sunlight.
Air the seedlings regularly, moisten the soil, but do not flood. Expect shoots in 1.5-2 months, with their appearance, the film must be removed. When the seedlings grow up, they dive into separate pots. When reaching a height of 15-20 cm, you need to pinch young shoots, stimulating the growth of new ones. Myrtle grown from seeds will give flowering by the 5th year of life.
Reproduction of myrtle cuttings
It is easier to grow myrtle from stem cuttings. They root very well.
- Cut cuttings in early summer from the top non-flowering shoots.
- It should have 3-4 pairs of leaves.
- Approximately 1 cm of the lower part of the cutting should be immersed in a phytohormone solution and kept for about 2 hours, then rinsed with clean water.
- Plant the cutting in a moist sand-peat mixture, deepen three knots at an angle of 45-50 °.
- Cover with cling film or cut transparent plastic bottle and place in a warm, shady place.
- Ventilate seedlings. New shoots will appear in about a month.
- Then the shelter must be removed and placed in a bright place.
In the future, take care of it like an adult plant. Such a myrtle should bloom in 2-3 years.
Video about cuttings of myrtle:
Diseases and pests of myrtle
Myrtle diseases occur due to improper watering. It is important to constantly keep the ground moist, but avoid stagnant water in the flowerpot itself and the pan. Excessive watering can provoke the onset of root rot, which will spread further and the plant will simply die. Due to dry air and insufficient watering, the foliage may turn yellow and fall off, but moderate watering will renew the plant. Also during this period, spider mites can attack. You recognize their appearance by the presence of cobwebs. Leaves, especially from the underside, should be washed with water or a weak solution of tobacco, sprayed with ground sulfur or insecticides should be applied (spraying should be done outdoors).
When scale insects appear on the plant, it can secrete resin, and the leaves and stems become covered with dark spots. The plant can be treated with a soap and tobacco solution. If scale insects have already become clearly visible, soak a swab in vodka or denatured alcohol and remove pests mechanically. Then treat with an insecticide or more sparingly with a soapy solution to completely destroy the larvae.
If the leaves dry up and curl up, most likely, aphids have appeared - small insects of green, black or gray color located at the bottom of the sheet. They reproduce very quickly. Treat immediately with special preparations that are sold in flower shops.
Types and varieties of myrtle
Myrtle Myrtus communis
The Russian interpretation of the Latin name - Myrtle Communis - is an evergreen tree that reaches a height of 50 cm to a meter in room conditions. The leaves are small, glossy, leathery, oblong, arranged oppositely.
Variegated Myrtle Myrtus Variegata
The foliage is variegated, the edges of the leaves are covered with dots and stripes of amber color. The flowers are miniature, beige-white in color with golden stamens, exude a pleasant aroma. Suitable for growing indoors. This species is revered as a symbol of fertility.
Variety Myrtle Hymen - the name was received in honor of the God of the Marriage Union, people call it the happiness of the bride. We honor it as a symbol of youth and beauty. This is an evergreen shrub, reaching a height of 3-5 m in the natural environment, in the room - about 1 meter. The leaves are miniature, lanceolate, emerald color. Flowers white with large quantity golden stamens, 1.5-2 cm in diameter. At the end of flowering, blue-black berries are formed, which have an intense pleasant aroma.
It has a powerful antibacterial effect, eliminating pathogenic bacteria, sticks. Helps in the fight against influenza, tonsillitis, sinusitis; in the prevention of treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, prostatitis.
The plant reaches a height of 3-4 m. Tetrahedral stems are covered with large leaves (up to 5 cm in length). The leaves are glossy, with pointed edges, arranged oppositely. A five-petalled snow-white flower with symmetrical golden stamens.
Myrtus Alhambra Myrtus Alhambra
An excellent ornamental plant suitable for growing in the wild and at home. The leaves are compacted, with a high content of essential oils. The flowers are small, white, fragrant. Blooms in late spring. After flowering, white fragrant fruits are formed.
Myrtus Tarentina Myrtus Tarentina
Dwarf form of the common subspecies. Small white flowers cover the plant profusely. The leaves are elongated, reach 1.5 cm, the edges are serrate, pointed, painted in emerald color, attached to short petioles. The plant has a fast growth rate. In nature, it grows about 5 m tall, in room conditions - up to 1 meter.
Lemon Myrtle Myrtus lemon
Exudes a pleasant lemon scent. Native to the tropics of Australia. Widely used in cooking. It is used for the manufacture of essential oil, various sauces, dressings, syrups and lemon drinks. Dry leaves are used as a seasoning.
Small-leaved myrtle Myrtus communis microphylla
The small-leaved form of the common myrtle captivates with its unique elegance with many small, densely planted dense leaves, completely covering the crown of the tree. Along with profuse flowering, it makes the myrtle tree a festive decoration for any room.
How to prepare a tincture of myrtle leaves?
Doing it yourself is pretty easy. Take a liter jar, put about 100 g of leaves there and pour 500 g of 60-70% alcohol or vodka. For two weeks, you need to infuse the mixture in dark place. It is advisable to shake the jar daily. Then filter the infusion. For the prevention of diseases 30 minutes before meals, you need to take 20 drops of infusion 3 times a day.
You can benefit from a plant simply by placing it in a room: it will purify the air from various viruses and microbes. It is not recommended to put myrtle in the bedroom. You will surely enjoy the aroma exuded by the tree. Myrtle is ideal for both home and office.
Myrtle is a symbol of a strong, prosperous, friendly family. Will great gift newlyweds and already families "with experience".
Legends, beliefs about myrtle, its medicinal and other useful properties
An ancient legend says that myrtle was brought from Paradise by Adam. The ancient Greeks considered myrtle sacred. Myrtle was also revered by the Romans, Egyptians, and Jews. Myrtle was considered the ability to restore youth to aging facial skin, and he gave travelers strength and vigor. For Catholics, myrtle is the personification of the spirit of the Virgin Mary, so the peoples Northern Europe consider it a talisman for women. With the birth of a daughter, a myrtle tree was grown, and at her wedding, sprigs of myrtle were used to decorate a veil, a bride's outfit, and a wedding bouquet. That is why myrtle is sometimes called the bride tree.
Myrtle means "balm" in translation from Greek. Its flowers and leathery leaves exude phytoncides - useful substances that can not only protect the plant from diseases, but also purify the air around it, relieve fatigue, and create a positive attitude.
Myrtle essential oil is widely used in medicine and perfumery. Myrtle tincture is rubbed on the face, which refreshes the skin better than any lotion. Myrtle tincture or a decoction of the bark and leaves is used in the treatment of diseases of the throat and respiratory tract, diseases of the genitourinary system and gastrointestinal tract, various suppurations and poorly healing wounds are treated.
In ancient times, the fruits of myrtle were infused in wine, considering it a good tonic, a real elixir of health.
Be careful with folk remedies treatment, be sure to consult your doctor. With caution, treatment with myrtle should be used for the elderly and pregnant women.
Dried fruits and leaves are used as a spice. When roasting, smoking, grilling meat or fish, adding a sprig of myrtle will give them a special flavor. Remove leaves after cooking. By the way, clove spice is a product of one of the types of myrtle tree.