Myrtle - home care, transplantation and propagation. Myrtle - flower care and propagation at home Why myrtle does not bloom, what to do

To make the plant feel better, when replanting, choose soils intended for citrus fruits and azaleas. The compositions of these substrates are best suited for myrtle.

We learned why myrtle leaves dry and wither, and how this problem can be eliminated. Reasons this phenomenon there may be several: from poor care to pest damage, possibly disease. By accurately determining the cause, you can most effectively and quickly eliminate the problem.

Source: https://rastenia.info/dekor/mirt/zasoh.html

The myrtle tree from the Myrtaceae family is an evergreen woody plant, the name of which is associated with the high concentration of essential oils in the flowers - “myrtle” translated from Greek means “balm”. The symbol of peace and hope is also distinguished by its excellent decorative qualities, which require very little time from the grower to maintain.

Myrtle tree: description, types and varieties

IN wildlife the plant can grow up to 3 meters in height, while indoor representatives of the genus, numbering from 40 to 100 species, do not exceed 1 m. Glossy, oppositely located leaf plates are attached to the shoots using short petioles. The flowers exuding a wonderful aroma can be either single or collected in racemes.

Among the most popular types are:

• Common myrtle. The most common variety in indoor floriculture, represented by plants with a branched trunk. Leathery, shiny green leaf blades exude aroma. During the flowering period, which occurs in the summer season, snow-white or pinkish-tinged flowers bloom, in place of which dark burgundy fruits ripen over time. In flower shops, the variegated form and compact variety “Tarentina” are often found.
• The myrtle is lush. Representatives of the species grow in the form of a bush or tree, the trunk of which is covered with peeling scales of bark. The flowering phase occurs in the second half of summer, when single pure white flowers contrast against the background of matte green leaves.
• Myrtle hekven. The most resistant species, the distinctive feature of which is the wrinkled edges of glossy green leaves.
• Ralph's myrtle. Shrub form with erect shoots and pinkish fragrant flowers.

Features of growing at home

The grace and symbolism of the myrtle tree makes it a desirable inhabitant of city apartments and houses.

However, when bringing a representative of an exotic flora into your home, you must take into account a number of flower requirements for growing at home:

• a large amount of light with direct sunlight in spring;
• abundant watering and regular spraying;
• long resting phase;
• systematic feeding.

Myrtle tree care

In order for the plant to provide aesthetic pleasure, it is necessary to follow simple rules for the maintenance and care of the crop.

Lighting and location

The flower develops well on the windowsills of the eastern and western sides of the house.

But thanks to the forbearance of the myrtle tree to direct sunlight, it is permissible to place the pot on the windowsills of southern windows, where protection from the midday sun is provided only in the summer heat, when the risk of burns is high. It is worth abandoning windows in the northern direction, since the future flowering of the “green miracle” depends on the fullness of the lighting.

Advice! To strengthen the plant's immunity in summer time Myrtle should be taken out into the fresh air, especially since it tolerates small drafts quite easily.

Temperature

In the spring-summer period, the flower feels great at normal room temperatures, which range from 20 to 25°C.

But in winter, in order to get many beautiful flowers next year, it is necessary to ensure that the myrtle tree stays in a cool, bright room at temperatures ranging from 5 – 10°C.

An unheated loggia will be an excellent solution for this period.

Watering and air humidity

In the spring-summer period, the flower should be watered regularly and abundantly so that the earthen ball is constantly in a slightly moist state. In winter, when the myrtle is kept cool, the volume and frequency of watering is reduced, but the substrate should not be allowed to dry out.

During the active growing season, the plant must be systematically sprayed.

Important! All water procedures should be carried out with warm, softened water.

Feeding and fertilizer

From the beginning of spring to the end of summer, the plant is provided with additional nutrition 2–3 times a month.

When fertilizing, various fertilizers are used, depending on the goal that the grower seeks to achieve:

• If bonsai is grown from myrtle, then nitrogen-containing complexes are added to the soil.
• If the goal of cultivation is to obtain a lushly flowering plant, then preference should be given to fertilizers for flowering plants with a high concentration of phosphorus and potassium.

Crown trimming and shaping

The crown is formed by pruning in the spring after the myrtle reaches three years of age.

Pinching is carried out at any time of the year, except winter. However, you should not overdo this procedure: systematic pinching can lead to a decrease in the number of flowers.

Depending on the desired shape, various shoots are cut:

• To form a bush, the top is cut off, which stimulates branching.
• To create a standard tree, side shoots are removed.

Transplantation at home

Young plants undergo the procedure annually. And the signal to replant an adult specimen is the drying of the earthen clod within 24 hours after heavy watering.

When transplanting, which is carried out in spring:

1. Select a pot with a diameter 2–3 cm larger than the previous one.
2. Drainage material is placed at the bottom to prevent stagnation of water in the roots.
3. A soil mixture is prepared from turf, humus, peat soil and sand in equal parts.
4. The flower is transferred to a new container.
5. The empty space is filled with the prepared substrate.

Flowering period

The flowering phase of the plant is observed in the summer season.

To make it regular and lush it is necessary:

• ensure a long resting stage;
• follow all care rules, including free access to fresh air.

The myrtle tree has a pronounced stagnation stage, the duration of which depends on the lighting:

• When wintering on a northern windowsill, the state of dormancy can last up to 3 months.
• If the flower overwinters in bright light, the phase will be shortened to 1 - 1.5 months.

At this time, watering is reduced, spraying and fertilizing are not carried out.

Attention! A long dormant stage is necessary for abundant flowering.

Diseases, pests and methods of combating them

If the rules of care are not followed, the myrtle tree can be colonized by thrips, scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, whiteflies and aphids. If, during inspection, harmful insects were noted on the plant, then it is worth treating the crop with an insecticidal solution.

In the case of systematic overwatering, the development of gray rot may be observed, which can be cured by transplanting the specimen into a new substrate and normalizing the irrigation regime.

Myrtle tree: propagation

The exotic flower reproduces by both seed and vegetative methods. Among the latter, the most popular method is cuttings.

Growing a myrtle tree from seeds is carried out according to the following scheme:

1. The seedling box is filled with a mixture of leaf soil and sand.
2. Seeds are distributed over the surface of the substrate and sprinkled with sand.
3. The container is covered with a film, which is periodically removed to ventilate and moisten the soil.
4. After emergence of shoots, the film is removed.
5. Seedlings are planted in separate pots after the formation of 2 true leaves.

Usually the procedure is carried out in the spring or after flowering:

1. From the shoots of the lower tier, cuttings 8 cm long are cut.
2. The cut sites are treated with a growth stimulator.
3. The cuttings are buried in a mixture of leaf soil and sand and covered with jars, which are systematically removed for ventilation.
4. Rooting takes place in a dark place for a month.
5. Rooted plants are planted in separate containers with a diameter of 7 cm.

Why does the myrtle tree dry out?

In order not to witness the plant drying out and its further death, it is necessary to determine the main reasons why the tree dries out.

Among the key factors leading to the drying out of myrtle are:

• Insufficient air humidity. It is necessary to monitor this indicator especially carefully in winter, when the plant overwinters in the living room near heating devices.
• Soil moisture deficiency. It is necessary to water the exotic flower regularly and abundantly to prevent the earthen clod and root system of the plant from drying out.

If the gardener is faced with a situation where the leaves have dried up but the trunk is still green. You can try to revive the plant:

• A mini-greenhouse is built over a dried tree.
• The branches and soil are systematically sprayed with a solution of a growth stimulator.
• Periodically, the greenhouse is ventilated and the substrate is slightly moistened.
• If the roots are alive, new shoots will begin to appear.
• At the beginning of the active growing season, bare branches are pruned.

Different peoples endow myrtle with different qualities:

• Europeans believe that myrtle brings peace and harmony to the home. But if the plant dies, then happiness will leave this house.
• Muslims, on the contrary, refrain from growing the myrtle tree indoors, since in their culture the plant is considered a “husband’s plant.”

The myrtle tree is a unique plant.

It is valued not only for its decorative qualities and aroma during the flowering period, but also for its high concentration of essential oils that can protect the room from the development of various viruses.

Myrtle is a plant for those who love peace, comfort and tranquility. Myrtle is an evergreen shrub or tree that belongs to the Myrtaceae family, which has about one hundred species. Myrtle is native to the Mediterranean and grows naturally in tropical and subtropical climate zones. In Crimea, the Caucasus, and on the Black Sea coast, myrtle is grown in open ground as an ornamental plant. In a greenhouse it grows up to 2 meters, but when grown in a pot it is modest in size. Myrtle leaves are small, glossy, ovoid, arranged oppositely.

The trunk is woody and branches well. Myrtle blooms are small, single, fragrant white flowers. They appear in the axils of the leaves, rising on a long peduncle. Blooms from early summer. Pollinate indoor myrtle using a brush. In autumn, pollinated plants bear fruit - juicy, spicy dark blue berries appear. Seeds from the fruit can be used for propagation.

By providing proper care for the plant, myrtle will delight you with its decorative effect throughout the year. Unpretentious, can live 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, ball and other shapes.

Watering

Homemade myrtle is unpretentious in care. It will take up little space and growing will not be difficult. Ensure timely watering and spraying. The plant loves moisture very much. During the period of active growth - spring and summer - the soil should be constantly moist. During this period, it is also advisable to spray the myrtle foliage daily. Sometimes you can take a warm shower. Use softened, settled water for watering and spraying. Reduce watering when temperatures drop. Under no circumstances allow the earthen clod to dry out; if this happens, the myrtle begins to dry out and fall off.

Excessive watering is another destructive extreme, fraught with rotting of the roots. Avoid stagnation of water in the tray 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 if all other rules of care are provided, it will not bloom. Myrtle is not afraid of drafts. On the contrary, air currents will better distribute favorable phytoncides.

Temperature

The plant will do well in cool rooms. A moderate or slightly below moderate air temperature (within 18-23°C) is suitable. To get abundant flowering, provide cool air temperatures in winter between 6-8°C. If this is not possible, you can winter in a warmer room, but with more frequent watering and spraying.

In winter, when heating systems are operating, the air becomes warm and dry - this can cause myrtle leaves to fall off. Don’t despair; continue to water the plant moderately and by spring it will green up again. A myrtle that has had a warm winter will most likely not bloom. In summer, myrtle can be taken out into the open air.

Feeding

For successful growth and good development, indoor myrtle needs to be fed. Apply organic mineral fertilizers once every two weeks. No fertilizing is needed during wintering.

How to trim and shape the crown of myrtle

Common myrtle is usually grown indoors. It tolerates pruning well. Even if the myrtle does not bloom, the formation of the crown will allow you to grow a beautiful bonsai-type tree. Do not expose the trunk too much, because it is not very strong. Leave as many side shoots as possible. However, if you want the tree to bloom, you should not get carried away with pruning, otherwise flower buds will not form.

Trimming myrtle on video:

Transfer

Home myrtle can grow for a very long time; it does not need to be renewed every few years, like many other plants, but it still needs to be replanted. This is done before active growth begins - 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: turf soil + humus soil + peat + sand, mix in proportions 2:1:1:1. Be sure to place drainage at the bottom of the pot.

Growing myrtle from seeds

Reproduction by seeds and cuttings is possible. During seed propagation, varietal characteristics may be lost if the seeds are taken from hybrid bushes. Only fresh seeds germinate well. Wash the seeds without pericarp in a weak solution of potassium permanganate and dry.

Plant in pots using light soil. The seeding depth is 0.5 cm. Cover with film or glass to create a greenhouse effect. Place in a warm, lit place, avoiding direct sunlight.

Ventilate the seedlings regularly, moisten the soil, but do not flood it. Expect shoots to emerge in 1.5-2 months; once they appear, the film must be removed. When the seedlings grow up, they are planted in separate pots. When reaching a height of 15-20 cm, you need to pinch out young shoots, stimulating the growth of new ones. Myrtle grown from seeds will bloom by the 5th year of life.

It is easier to grow myrtle from stem cuttings. They take root very well.

• Take cuttings in early summer from the top non-flowering shoots.
• The cuttings 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 left for about 2 hours, then rinsed with clean water.
• Plant the cuttings in a damp sand-peat mixture, deepen it into three nodes at an angle of 45-50°.
• Cover the top with film or a cut-out transparent plastic bottle and place in a warm, shady place.
• Ventilate the seedlings. New shoots will appear in about a month.
• Then the shelter needs to be removed and placed in a bright place.

In the future, care for it as you would for an adult plant. This myrtle should bloom in 2-3 years.

Video about cutting myrtle:

Diseases and pests of myrtle

Myrtle diseases occur due to improper watering. It is important to constantly keep the soil moist, but to avoid stagnation of water in the flowerpot and tray itself. Excessive watering can trigger 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 restore the plant. Also during this period, spider mites can attack. You recognize their appearance by the presence of cobwebs. The leaves, especially on the underside, need to be washed with water or a weak tobacco solution, sprayed with ground sulfur or insecticides applied (spray in the open air).

When scale insects appear on a plant, it may 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 the pests mechanically. Then treat with an insecticide or, more gently, with a soap solution to completely destroy the larvae.

If the leaves dry out and curl, most likely there are aphids - small green, black or gray insects located on the bottom of the leaf. They reproduce very quickly. Immediately treat with special preparations that are sold in flower shops.

Types and varieties of myrtle

Common 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 indoor conditions. The leaves are small, glossy, leathery, oblong, arranged oppositely.

Variegata 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-snow-white in color with golden stamens, and exude a pleasant aroma. Suitable for growing indoors. This species is revered as a symbol of fertility.

Myrtle Hymen variety - the name was received in honor of the God of Marriage, 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, and about 1 meter in a room. The leaves are miniature, lanceolate, emerald in color. The flowers are snow-white with a large number of golden stamens, 1.5-2 cm in diameter. At the end of flowering, blue-black berries are formed that have an intense, pleasant aroma.

Bigleaf Myrtle Myrtus macrophylla

It has a powerful antibacterial effect, eliminating pathogenic bacteria and rods. Helps in the fight against flu, sore throat, sinusitis; in the prevention of treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, prostatitis.

The plant reaches a height of 3-4 m. The 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

An excellent ornamental plant, suitable for growing in wild and domestic conditions. The leaves are compacted, with a high content of essential oils. The flowers are small, white, fragrant. They bloom in late spring. After flowering, white, fragrant fruits are formed.

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 serrated, pointed, colored emerald, attached to shortened petioles. The plant has a fast growth rate. In nature it grows about 5 m tall, in indoor conditions - up to 1 meter.

Lemon Myrtle Myrtus lemon

Exudes a pleasant lemon aroma. Originally from the tropics of Australia. Widely used in cooking. Used for making essential oil, various sauces, dressings, syrups and lemon drinks. Dry leaves are used as 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 that completely cover the crown of the tree. Along with abundant flowering, the myrtle tree turns into a festive decoration for any room.

How to prepare a tincture of myrtle leaves?

It's quite easy to do this yourself. Take a liter jar, put about 100 g of leaves in it and fill 500 g with 60-70% alcohol or vodka. For two weeks you need to infuse the mixture in a dark place. It is advisable to shake the jar daily. Then filter the infusion. To prevent diseases, you need to take 20 drops of infusion 30 minutes before meals 3 times a day.

You can benefit from the plant simply by placing it in the room: it will purify the air from various viruses and microbes. It is not recommended to place myrtle in the bedroom. You will surely love the aroma exuded by the tree. Myrtle is ideal for both home and office.

Myrtle is a symbol of a strong, prosperous, friendly family. It will be an excellent gift for newlyweds and established families.

Legends, beliefs about myrtle, its medicinal and other beneficial properties

An ancient legend says that Adam brought myrtle from Paradise. The ancient Greeks considered myrtle sacred. Myrtle was also revered by the Romans, Egyptians, and Jews. Myrtle was credited with the ability to restore youth to aging facial skin, and it gave strength and vigor to travelers. For Catholics, myrtle is the personification of the spirit of the Virgin Mary, therefore the peoples of Northern Europe consider it a talisman for women. With the birth of her daughter, a myrtle tree was grown, and at her wedding, myrtle branches were used to decorate the veil, the bride’s outfit, and the wedding bouquet. That is why myrtle is sometimes called the bride tree.

Myrtle means "balm" in 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 mood.

Myrtle essential oil is widely used in medicine and perfumery. Wipe your face with myrtle tincture, which refreshes the skin better than any lotion. Myrtle tincture or decoction of bark and leaves is used in the treatment of throat and respiratory tract diseases, diseases genitourinary system and gastrointestinal tract, treat various suppurations and poorly healing wounds.

In ancient times, myrtle fruits were infused into wine, considering it a good tonic, a real elixir of health.

Be careful with folk remedies, be sure to consult a doctor. Myrtle treatment should be used with caution by elderly people and pregnant women.

Dried fruits and leaves are used as a spice. When baking, smoking, grilling meat or fish, adding a sprig of myrtle will give them a special aroma. Remove leaves after cooking. By the way, the spice clove is a product of one of the types of myrtle tree.

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When buying myrtle, you need to understand that the plant has a pronounced dormant period. This means that you need to care for myrtle differently in summer and winter. Because of this feature, myrtle can be located in different places depending on the temperature in the house and the time of year. The most favorable time for the plant is summer. Myrtle loves fresh air very much, so the plant can even be buried together with the pot in the ground, for example, in the garden. Before digging in, you need to think and decide on the place where the myrtle will grow.

Myrtle is in great demand among flower lovers. But quite often, various problems occur when growing myrtle at home. For example, myrtle sheds its leaves. This may be due to improper maintenance of myrtle. Something similar can be observed when growing such famous plants as azalea or pomegranate. Caring for myrtle is quite simple, but still has its own nuances.

Location and lighting

Myrtle loves bright, diffused light and easily tolerates direct sunlight. But it is worth considering that the plant should be shaded from direct sunlight in the hot season. If you want to get flowers from the plant, then you need to take into account that the myrtle should be in a well-lit place. In summer, myrtle can be taken out into the open air.

If myrtle grows in a room on a windowsill, then the best option would be western and eastern windows. If you place myrtle in the south, it can get sunburn. The north is the most unfavorable place for flowering: the flowers will be faded and quickly fall off. It can also be noted that light acts on myrtle as a signal for awakening.

In winter, you need to give the plant as much light as possible. If the myrtle stands in the south, then the dormant period will last only a month, if in the north, then all three. If you had to change your permanent place, then you need to do it gradually. After all, in another place the level of light will be different. The myrtle may lose light or, on the contrary, receive too much of it, so you need to approach rearranging the tree carefully and gradually. The plant does not like a sudden change of place of residence. It’s worth starting with the fact that little by little the myrtle can be placed a little further from the window, so it will quickly get used to the new conditions of detention.

Temperature

In summer, room temperature is quite suitable for myrtle. In general, the plant likes cool or moderate temperatures. The most favorable air temperature is 18-20 degrees. In winter, it is better to move the myrtle tree to a cool room with an air temperature of 6-8 degrees Celsius. Under such conditions, the myrtle will bloom profusely in the summer. You can, of course, overwinter myrtle at room temperature, but in this case you will need abundant watering and constant spraying.

When the air is warm and dry in winter, myrtle leaves often fall off, although you should not despair. If you continue to water the tree moderately, in the spring it will turn green again, but myrtle that has endured a warm winter most likely will not bloom.

Air humidity

Myrtle loves moist air, so it needs regular spraying. Usually, myrtle is not sprayed in winter when it is kept cool, but in summer or during the warm season the plant must be constantly sprayed. This is especially true in autumn and spring, when the plant is in the active growth phase.

Watering

In spring and summer, myrtle is watered regularly and abundantly as soon as the top layer of soil dries out. In winter, of course, myrtle needs to be watered less often, but still the soil should not be allowed to dry out, otherwise the plant will die. Myrtle should be watered with warm and, if possible, soft water. It is important to ensure that the soil in the pot never dries out. Regardless of the time of year, there should always be moist soil in the pot. At the same time, you need to make sure that the water does not stagnate in the pot.

The soil

The optimal soil composition for growing myrtle is: turf, humus, peat soil and sand in equal proportions or clay, turf, peat and humus soil with the addition of sand in a ratio of 1:1:1:0.5.

Feeding and fertilizers

From spring to autumn, myrtle needs to be fed every week. Depending on what kind of tree you want, you choose the fertilizer for myrtle. If you want the plant to delight you with its flowering, you need to use fertilizer with a high level of phosphorus. If you like a miniature tree, then it is better to use nitrogen fertilizers. In general, you can use conventional liquid complex fertilizers for decorative foliage plants.

Transfer

It is best to replant an adult myrtle once every 3-4 years, and young plants are replanted annually in the spring before flowering. When transplanting myrtle, you should not bury the root collar of the plant; this can lead to various diseases or rot. Be sure to place a good layer of drainage at the bottom of the pot. The myrtle pot should not be too large, just enough to accommodate the root system. For transplanting and transshipment, you need to choose a pot that is half as large in volume as the volume of the plant’s crown.

Trimming and pinching

For myrtle, pruning is an opportunity to radically change the shape of the plant and is best done in the spring. If you pinch young branches in time, you can increase the density of the crown; you can pinch them as needed at any time of the year.

You need to pay special attention and spend more time on pruning and pinching myrtle. After purchasing myrtle, you should decide what kind of tree you want to have in your home. For example, if nothing is done, a myrtle tree may end up taking on a pyramidal shape. If you cut off the top of the tree, it will take on the appearance of a bush. If you trim the sides, you will end up with a lush tree. In any case, no matter how you prune the myrtle, it will still bloom and delight its owner. But it is important to remember one thing: if you pinch myrtle back often, you will end up with much fewer flowers than before.

In general, if you look at it this way, the myrtle tree is one of the plants that is susceptible to defragmentation. It can always be cut in different ways and thereby give it a unique look. But don't overdo it. When the plant is small, you need to take into account that the trunk is still young and will not be able to hold a proudly lush bush like that. You just need to wait a little and the myrtle will get stronger and within three years it will show itself as a beautiful bush.

One note when replanting myrtle, you need to ensure that the trunk remains on the surface of the earth, and so the whole transplantation algorithm is suitable, as for other plants living in the rooms of the house. Planting directly into a large pot is a mistake. For a tree that is only three years old, the pot should have a diameter of at least 12 centimeters. The soil for myrtle is bought at the store.

Myrtle propagates by cuttings and seeds. For beginners, it is recommended to propagate the plant from cuttings.

Propagation by cuttings

Propagation by cuttings should be carried out no more than twice a year. The first time should be done in winter (January-February), and the second time should be aimed at spring or mid-summer (July). Cuttings should be taken from the lower or middle part of the tree. The length of the cutting should be 5-8 centimeters. To prevent moisture evaporation, you can remove the leaves from the cuttings; the remaining ones can simply be shortened. To ensure quick rooting, you can use stimulants.

The most suitable mixture for rooting is a mixture of sand and moss. If this is not the case, then you can use ordinary leaf soil containing coarse sand. The temperature at which the rooting procedure will take place should be within 16-20 degrees.

The best time for rooting is winter. The cuttings do not need light at all at this time - on the contrary, this place needs to be shaded. The container for rooting should be strictly not deep; after rooting, you need to cover the cutting with a cap. Sometimes the plant needs to be ventilated so that it does not fester at an early age. Rooting usually takes about a month. After this, you can safely plant it in a small pot with a diameter of approximately 7 centimeters.

When propagated by cuttings, flowering occurs in the 3rd or 4th year.

The seeds are evenly distributed over the soil surface and sprinkled with a thin layer of substrate on top. The container with seeds is covered with film or glass to create greenhouse conditions. The temperature must be maintained within 18-20 degrees. The container with seeds must be ventilated periodically. The soil is kept moist at all times.

Seedlings usually germinate in 1-2 weeks. When the seedlings have two full-fledged leaves, they can be transplanted into separate small pots. Transplantation is carried out using the transshipment method. In the future, caring for young plants is the same as for adult myrtle. Transplantation is carried out when the roots completely fill the pot.

When myrtle is propagated by seeds, flowering occurs after approximately 5 years.

Myrtle can be affected by aphids and scale insects, and in dry air and insufficient moisture, by spider mites.

The scale insect is practically invisible at an early stage, but multiplies quickly, covering the stems and leaves of the plant with dark spots. The scale is removed with a damp swab, but it is still necessary to treat the entire plant with an insecticide or soap solution.

Aphids often settle on the underside of the leaf and feed on the sap of the plant, which leads to the leaves drying out and curling. Aphids are destroyed by insecticidal agents.

Spider mites appear on the undersides of leaves and envelop them in thin white webs. It is destroyed by spraying and washing the leaves, especially on the underside, with water or weak tobacco infusion. Myrtle can also be treated with ready-made universal insecticides.

Difficulties in growing

• The stems are stretched, the leaves become smaller and turn pale - lack of lighting.
• The leaves become dull, turn yellow, the edges curl - excess lighting.
• Leaves fall - insufficient lighting in winter or warm wintering.

In conclusion, we can say that myrtle is an amazing plant. Apart from the fact that myrtle is blooming and the flowers are beautifully fragrant, it also has medicinal properties. Even the smallest tree can protect against diseases and viruses in the house. As you know, myrtle oil is highly valued among the people and has many indications for use.

Tincture from the myrtle tree gives a person energy and vigor, the effect is almost like coffee. Myrtle leaves are boiled and used to treat gastrointestinal diseases. Even in cooking, myrtle has found its use. Very often, the leaves or even the shoots of myrtle themselves are used in the preparation of fish or poultry dishes. If you throw a sprig of myrtle on the coals, the kebab will turn out simply magnificent: the aroma will simply be incomparable to anything else. Even Bay leaf will not be so popular in this area.

Among several peoples, myrtle is considered almost a cult tree. Wreaths and bouquets are made from it. A gift from myrtle is given to brides, so the plant was given the name “Bride Tree”. The myrtle tree is also called the “Tree of Family Well-Being and Happiness,” which personifies a friendly and strong family.

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How to properly care for myrtle at home

Myrtle - This is a very interesting plant, part of the corresponding Myrtaceae family. It grows in Mediterranean countries with subtropical climatic conditions. In general, the name itself is of Greek origin and is derived from the word “incense”. This name is explained by the fact that the leaves and flowers of this plant contain essential oils, which emit a very pleasant and soothing aroma.

Externally myrtle is a beautiful small tree with elongated and pointed leaves arranged oppositely. The leaves are bright green in color and their petioles are short.

How to water?

When caring for myrtle, it is very important to ensure regular watering: We must not forget that the plant comes from the subtropics, and therefore loves moisture very much. Along with watering, the tree should be sprayed daily. If the soil is not sufficiently moistened, the plant will begin to turn yellow and dry out.

In winter, watering rules change somewhat: it is necessary to switch to moderate mode, i.e. one watering per week. There is also no need for spraying (unless the tree is left in a warm room).

Lighting

It is best to place myrtle on the south side of the house. In principle, myrtle will grow on the eastern side, and not even on the western side. But it is in this place, on the southern windows, that the plant will feel as comfortable as possible and will be able to bloom. At the same time, keep in mind that at midday, especially in summer, the tree should be somewhat shaded. To do this, use a screen or curtain.

Temperature and humidity

When choosing temperature regime Again, the natural habitat of the plant should be taken into account. For this reason in the summer optimal temperature is about 22-24 degrees. It will be useful to take the tree out into the garden or onto the balcony. If you keep myrtle in your apartment all the time, do not forget to ventilate the room.

With all this, it is necessary to ensure an appropriate level of humidity: in summer it should be quite high.

A little about feeding

When caring for myrtle, you can safely use comprehensive fertilizers intended for flowering indoor plants. In summer, the optimal frequency of feeding is weekly. In winter, this can be done monthly.

Transplanting myrtle

Myrtle is a slow-growing plant, and therefore it is not recommended to replant it too often. At the same time, all young trees should be replanted annually, increasing pot volume. Adult plants can be in one pot for about 3-4 years.
The most optimal time for replanting is winter, when the tree is dormant.

The entire transplant process looks like this:

• It is first recommended to dry the earthen ball, for which you do not water for several days. This will make it easier to remove the plant;
• Then you simply need to turn the old pot over from the plant and carefully pull out the tree, holding it by the base of the trunk;
• The roots of the plant need to be treated with some kind of stimulant, which will improve the survival rate of myrtle;
• The new pot is filled with expanded clay. We should not forget about drainage;
• Then the substrate is prepared. By the way, both during the initial planting and subsequently, the best substrate option is peat and turf soil (30% each), as well as humus and river or sifted sand (20% each);
• The finished substrate is poured onto the bottom of the pot;
• The plant is installed in a new pot, covered with substrate, leveled;
• After replanting, water the myrtle thoroughly until water seeps out of the drainage hole;

After all stages, the tree is transferred to a shaded place.

There are two ways to propagate myrtle:

• Cuttings;
• Seeds.

Propagation by cuttings will occur if the soil temperature reaches 25 degrees. This is extremely important condition.

Propagation is carried out using apical cuttings.

• A cutting that has reached a length of 7-9 cm must be cut from a side shoot. You can also use a shorter cutting (5-7 cm), but in this case it is necessary to cut it from the main, but not flowering, shoot. The lower leaves must be removed, and the formed cut must be processed using Kornevin.
• The next step is planting cuttings. A mixture of sand and peat is ideal for this purpose. The cuttings are placed in this mixture and covered with a loose film on top. The rooting process occurs at room temperature. The result appears after approximately 2-3 weeks.

Another propagation option is using seeds. This method has a significant drawback: the seeds take a long time to germinate. But many are already familiar with such difficulties and may try to grow myrtle this way. To propagate by seeds, you need to prepare a substrate consisting of peat and sand. It is also recommended to sprinkle the mixture with a little soil. The substrate and soil on top are covered with plastic film.

For successful germination, it is important to meet two conditions:

• Provide diffused light;
• Monitor the temperature, which should be maintained at 21 degrees.

It is equally important to form a crown with this method of reproduction:

You need to pinch the sprout at a certain height. Flowering of young plants should be expected in the second or third year.

Those who want to get myrtle flowers should know that to do this they should not prune the plant in the spring. In general, it is better to postpone pruning until flowering has ended.

The flowering period is the beginning and middle of summer, June-July. In order for the flowers to turn out beautiful, two rules must be followed:

• Provide proper care for the tree;
• Provide constant access to fresh air for the plant.

Inadequate care will lead to the development of diseases, and in this case there will be no need to talk about flowering. Flowering is also not observed when myrtle is kept indoors, where the air is predominantly stagnant.

The flowers themselves on the tree in question are arranged like this:

• Or singly in leaf axils;
• Or being collected in brushes.

There are usually 4-6 petals, but the flowers themselves are simple and double. The main part of the flowers is located in the upper part of the plant, since that is where the best illumination is.

Diseases and pests of myrtle, methods of combating them

To begin with, we note that myrtle does not have any special diseases or serious problems. But individual ailments can still sometimes occur.

For example, in conditions of poorly drained soil, a tree may develop root rot. Some problems may arise due to non-compliance with key care rules: insufficient lighting, poor watering. It is important to always take into account the fact that myrtle is a very fastidious plant, and therefore every condition for its care must be observed as precisely as possible.

Also, the tree is often attacked by insects: these can be thrips, scale insects, spider mites, aphids. For this reason, you need to carefully monitor the condition of the plant and, if there are any negative signs, carefully inspect it for the presence of insects. This requirement is especially relevant in relation to old plants.

If there were pests discovered, then you need to purchase the appropriate drug to combat them. This product must be used in strict accordance with instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions on Growing Myrtle

Those who grow myrtle often have certain questions. We will look at the most common of them, and also try to give extremely detailed answers.

• Myrtle not growing?

The lack of tree growth can be associated with various factors. Here you need to, firstly, take into account that myrtle, in principle, does not grow too quickly. In addition, one should not expect active growth from it in the very first stages of development. For the rest, try to provide high-quality care and feed the plant well.

• Myrtle not blooming?

The tree will not bloom in several cases. So, if you cut a plant in the spring, then you should forget about flowering this year. There will be no flowers even when the myrtle is kept in a poorly ventilated room.

• Are myrtle leaves withering?

In winter, myrtle may be left without leaves if its temperature is too high for a dormant period. A similar picture can be observed if the basic rules relating to watering the plant, spraying it and feeding it are not followed. Thus, the leaves of a tree can wilt when water stagnates in the pan. Or, on the contrary, it can happen if the soil dries out excessively between waterings. Among other things, the cause of leaf wilting can be excess sunlight. Therefore, when you detect the first signs of myrtle wilting, it is important to move it to a place protected from sunlight, adjust watering and start spraying more often.

• Is it poisonous?

Myrtle leaves are slightly poisonous. Long-term exposure to substances contained in the leaves can cause nausea and headaches in the most sensitive people.

Video on caring for myrtle at home

Thus, when caring for myrtle, it is important to understand that this plant does not accept any deviations from the key rules of caring for it. We must not forget about the frequency and abundance of watering, spraying, and fertilizing. It is necessary to provide the plant with a flow of fresh air. Finally, it needs to be replanted periodically. If you follow all the tips and take into account all the nuances, you will be able to fully enjoy the beauty of this unusual tree.

source

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Features of growing myrtle

The main feature of growing myrtle is the need for cold wintering. How southerner it loves light and high humidity. Myrtle is a flowering plant. For good flowering it needs pinching. On the other hand, if you actively shape its crown, its ability to flower may suffer. Therefore, you need to know the basic rules of pruning and decide what you like more – a flowering tree or a plant with a beautifully formed crown.

Another feature of myrtle is its slow growth. Over the course of a year, the tree gains only 10-15 cm.

Myrtle is not very whimsical and not difficult to care for. It is enough to provide it with temperature, light and watering conditions.

Planting an indoor myrtle flower

Planting this home flower has no special features. Transplantation is carried out as the plant grows. Each time they take a larger pot for a flower.

Planting methods

Myrtle propagates by cuttings or seeds.

Optimal time for planting

The best time to plant cuttings in winter is February, in summer – July. For propagation by seeds, the time of year does not matter.

Soil for the plant (Composition and selection of soil)

The following soil composition is suitable for myrtle:

• A mixture of turf, humus, peat and sand in equal parts
• Greenhouse land
• Peat, humus and sand in a ratio of 1:1:0.5, respectively.

The soil should be slightly acidic.

Features of caring for your home myrtle flower at home

There is no difficulty in caring for myrtle if you follow the basic conditions for its cultivation.

Myrtle grows well in bright light. However, in extreme heat, he needs openwork shade. If the myrtle lives in the country in the summer, it is better to place it in the shade of trees at midday; if on the balcony, you can shade it with a tulle curtain.

In accordance with this, you need to choose a place in the house. It is better if it is south, south-east or south-west. If you put it on the north side, it will, of course, survive, but it will bloom worse.

Air humidity

Myrtle loves moist air, especially in summer. The soil should not dry out, and the plant itself must be sprayed.

In winter, if it is not possible to keep the myrtle in the cold, it should be placed away from heating radiators and maintain high air humidity.

Temperature regime for the plant

The main difficulty in keeping myrtle in good shape is organizing proper wintering. Myrtle urgently needs a fairly low temperature in winter - optimally no higher than +7 degrees, in summer - +22 - +25 degrees.

How to water correctly

Overwatering and excessive dryness are equally harmful to myrtle. Intensified watering is carried out from spring to late summer. Then it is reduced to 1 time per week. It is unacceptable for the earthen clod to dry out. If there is water in the pan after watering, it must be drained.

Feeding and fertilizing the myrtle flower

You can feed myrtle all year round; only the frequency of fertilization changes.

In summer this can be done weekly, in winter - monthly. Fertilizers for flowering plants are ideal for feeding.

Trimming

Regular pruning of myrtle stimulates the growth of side shoots. If you do not do this, it is impossible to get a lush crown. Frequent pruning of young shoots can negatively affect flowering.

Trimming methods

To get a neat crown of the desired shape, you will have to come to terms with the fact that the plant will bloom less.

If you pinch the top, you get a neat bush; if you don’t touch the plant, the crown will be pyramidal; if you trim the side shoots, you get a crown like a tree.

Transplanting myrtle

Young plants are replanted once a year, adults - once every 2-3 years.

Transplant methods

Replanting is done by simply transferring the plant into a new, larger pot. Naturally, into new soil. In order for the plant to be easily removed from the pot, you need to dry the earthen ball a little, so you should stop watering a few days before replanting.

Be sure to put drainage at the bottom of the pot, then plant the myrtle in soil of any composition indicated above. The soil needs to be well compacted around the plant. There is no need to bury the trunk into the ground.

Myrtle is propagated by cuttings and seeds. Both methods give good results and are not particularly difficult at home.

Reproduction methods

Cuttings

Cuttings can be taken both from a side shoot and from the main one, but not from the flowering one. From a side shoot you need to take a cutting no more than 10 cm, from the main shoot - 5-7 cm. Before planting, you need to remove the lower leaves from the cutting and trim the upper ones. Treat the cutting itself with root or heteroauxin. Plant in a flat tray in a mixture of leaf soil and coarse sand.

It is better to place the tray with cuttings in a cool, shaded place and cover it with film. Just like an adult plant, seedlings need to be watered and sprayed. From time to time it is advisable to ventilate the greenhouse so that the soil does not become sour and the cuttings do not rot. Rooting occurs within a month. Then the grown plants are planted in separate pots in a regular myrtle substrate.

To sow seeds, take peat soil mixed with sand. Before sowing seeds, the soil must be moistened, possibly with a fungicide solution. Seeds are distributed into a tray on a layer of soil, then they are sprinkled with another layer of soil and covered with film or glass. The greenhouse needs to be ventilated and the soil should always be kept slightly moist. Seeds germinate on the seventh or tenth day. After the first leaves appear, the seedlings need to be transplanted into pots. When the root system develops and entangles the earthen ball, the plants are replanted again by transferring them into larger containers. Next, they need to be cared for like adult plants.

Bloom

If you want myrtle to bloom, you don't need to prune it in the spring.

When the plant blooms (flowering period), flower shape

Flowering period is June and July. At this time, the flower requires increased watering and fresh air. Some gardeners take myrtle to the dacha and dig the pot into the garden bed so that it is not exposed to direct sunlight, but has enough light.

Myrtle flowers are small, delicate, white or pink. The main part of the flowers is located on the upper part of the crown. They come in regular and terry types.

Plant care after flowering

After flowering ends, watering and fertilizing are gradually reduced. In autumn the crown is pruned.

Problems, diseases and pests of a flower

If myrtle is cared for well, it will not face any trouble. It can only suffer from overwatering, then the roots begin to rot and the plant dies.

If the indoor air is too dry, myrtle may become susceptible to pests. It is affected by aphids, scale insects and spider mites.

• Scale insects or shield aphids attack leaves and stems. Measures to combat it are spraying with a soap and tobacco solution with the addition of kerosene. The pests themselves are removed with a damp swab, and spraying with an insecticide saves from the larvae.
• Spider mites appear if the indoor air is too dry. You can get rid of it by washing the leaves (their lower side) with a soap solution or weak tobacco infusion. Insecticides can be used.
• Aphids attack leaves– they begin to curl and dry out. Treated with insecticides.

Plant species

As an ornamental plant, myrtle is represented by only one species - the common myrtle (Myrtus communis).

There are practically no difficulties in growing myrtle. But we dare to give some advice.

• Annual replanting of adult myrtle is not required, but you can change the top layer of soil every year with the addition of complex fertilizers
• If you spray myrtle in winter, it may lose its leaves.
• Place myrtle in a child's room - it creates a very good atmosphere.

Answers to readers' questions

Myrtle is a perennial plant; with good care it lives a long time.

Is it possible to keep this plant at home?

Myrtle in the house is a source of peace and good mood. Myrtle leaves contain essential oils that have a beneficial effect on mood and health.

Is this flower poisonous?

Myrtle leaves are (slightly) poisonous. May cause nausea and headaches in allergy sufferers

Why doesn't the flower bloom?

There may be no flowering if the crown is formed. It will not bloom even if it is kept indoors in the summer.

Why do the leaves turn yellow (dry)?

Myrtle leaves turn yellow if it is damaged by a pest. Dry air and lack of light can also be the reason for this.

Why does myrtle shed its leaves?

Leaves fall due to lack of light or too high temperature.

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Description of the plant

The Myrtle family is well known among gardeners. There are about 10 varieties of myrtle in total. The homeland of the plant is the Mediterranean. Grows in subtropical climates. In natural conditions it is a shrub or tree up to 3 meters high. When grown in an apartment it reaches 60 cm.

The leaves are small, shiny, leathery, oval, dark green. If you rub them in your hand, they emit a pleasant spicy aroma. The main part of essential oils is concentrated in small veins. The flowers are small on long stalks, with five petals and many stamens. Color - white or pale pink. The fruits are round small berries of intense blue color.

Subtleties of cultivation

Full care of myrtle at home is organized in accordance with a number of rules. Myrtle is considered a capricious plant, often refusing to bloom or dropping its leaves. Creating optimal conditions for growth and flowering helps to avoid this.

1. Lighting and location selection. It easily tolerates direct rays of the sun, but prefers diffused light. In hot weather it is shaded. It blooms only when there is enough light. The optimal location is window sills facing west or east. In summer, the flower is moved to fresh air. In winter they provide full lighting.
2. Temperature. In the summer season they are kept at 18-20 °C. In winter, the plant needs coolness. Myrtle is moved to a glazed balcony or loggia with temperatures not lower than 6-8 °C. After a full rest, myrtle blooms magnificently and for a long time. When wintering in a room, the flower is well watered and systematically sprayed. This helps prevent leaf drop, but does not guarantee flowering.
3. Humidity. Grows better in high humidity. It responds to spraying with warm, well-settled water by unanimously releasing new shoots. The need for moisture increases during periods of increased growth. At this time, the procedure is carried out daily. Additionally, air humidifiers and trays filled with water are used.
4. Watering. Water the plant frequently - as soon as the top layer of soil begins to dry out. In winter, the need for water is less, but the soil should not be allowed to dry out completely. Stable soil moisture is maintained all year round. Do not allow water to stagnate at the bottom of the pot.
5. The soil. The soil for myrtle is chosen to be nutritious, not heavy, and of moderate acidity. A mixture of peat, humus and turf with the addition of sand or perlite is best.
6. Feeding. During the period of active growth, fertilize frequently - every week. For abundant flowering, choose fertilizers with a high phosphorus content. Complex preparations for decorative deciduous crops are regularly used.
7. Transfer. Until the age of four, the bushes are replanted annually. Mature trees - once every 3-4 years. The optimal time is spring, before flowering. When transplanting, do not allow the root collar to deepen. A thick layer of drainage is provided at the bottom of the planting container. The size of the pot is determined by the diameter of the crown - it should be half that size. Myrtle will not bloom in a large pot.
8. Trimming and shaping. Myrtle is an indoor flower that is very easy to shape. It tolerates shearing easily and quickly produces young shoots. Myrtle is pruned in early spring before active growth begins. The method of pruning depends on the desired result. Throughout the summer, the crown of the plant is adjusted, pinching out too long young shoots.

Reproduction methods

Propagating myrtle is not difficult even for novice gardeners. Young plants are obtained by cuttings and sowing seeds.

By cuttings

Cuttings are cut twice a year - in the middle of winter or summer. Select semi-lignified branches from the middle or lower part of the crown. The optimal length of the cutting is from 5 to 8 cm. Half of the leaves are removed from the cutting, the remaining half is cut off. The lower cut is dipped in a growth stimulator. A mixture of heteroauxin with 0.25% ascorbic acid gives a good effect. The container is filled with a light substrate of sphagnum and sand. The cuttings are placed in it at a slight angle and covered with film. The greenhouse with cuttings is placed in a cool, shaded place. During the rooting stage, maintain a temperature of 16-20 °C. The greenhouse is periodically ventilated, the humidity level is monitored, and if necessary, the soil is watered and the cuttings are sprayed. They take root quickly - no longer than a month. The seedlings are transplanted into pots with a diameter of 7 cm (an ordinary plastic cup will do). When the roots completely entwine the clod of earth, transfer them to a larger pot. The first flowering is no earlier than after 3 years.

Seeds

Myrtle grows more slowly from seeds. When using seed material collected from the mother plant, the characteristics of the variety may differ. The substrate for germination is a mixture of peat and vermiculite. Before sowing, it is watered with a weak solution of fungicide. Myrtle seeds are scattered over the surface and covered with a very thin layer of substrate. The planting container is covered with glass. Maintain the temperature at 18-20 °C, monitor the soil moisture - it should not be overdried or waterlogged. Every day, the glass is removed briefly to ventilate the greenhouse. When favorable conditions are created, seedlings appear in 1-2 weeks. Dive into separate pots in the phase of 2 true leaves. Flowering - no earlier than 5 years of life.

Diseases, problems and pests

Young myrtle rarely gets sick. Mature and old bushes are less resistant to pests and negative factors.

• Aphids and scale insects. They attack the plant when there is insufficient moisture. Conditions are adjusted and treatment is carried out with anticoccidal agents.
• Spider mite. Appears when there is insufficient soil moisture. Myrtle is treated with insecticides.
• Fungi and putrefactive bacteria. Their appearance provokes constant waterlogging of the soil. The plant is replanted, removing the affected parts.
• Yellow, dull leaves with curled edges. A sign of excessive lighting.
• Grinding leaves, pulling stems. The reason is poor lighting.
• Falling leaves. Increased temperature and dry air in winter or stagnation of water in the root system.

Growing myrtle at home is a difficult but exciting activity. Once you master shaping, you can give your myrtle any shape.

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Myrtle plant - description, photo

The tree at home grows in height from 30 to 60 cm. It has elongated, small, leathery leaves that appear polished. The leaves have a pointed apex and grow on short petioles. In summer, clusters of simple or double flowers, or single flowers, form in the leaf axils. After flowering, the plant ripens fruits, which are a drupe berry or a nut.

In indoor floriculture, the common myrtle (communis) is most often grown, the care of which we will discuss in detail in our article.

The ordinary world - care at home

Myrtle communis (common) is a small tree with a short branched trunk. It has red-brown bark, leathery, glossy, oval-lanceolate green leaves and white or pale pink flowers. Stamens protrude from the middle of the flower. The leaves of the plant have a pleasant aroma. It blooms throughout the summer, after which red-black berries form on the tree.

It is recommended to grow the myrtle houseplant on windows on the western and eastern sides. On southern window sills in the summer it will need to be shaded, for which you can use a tulle curtain. When grown on northern windowsills, flowering will be sparse.

Air temperature. Indoor myrtle does not like heat and grows well at air temperatures within +18...+20 degrees. It is recommended to regularly ventilate the room. In winter, the plant needs to be provided with cool conditions with an air temperature of +5 to +10 degrees. At higher temperatures in winter, the flower may shed its leaves.

Air humidity. Myrtle needs high air humidity, so in spring and summer its leaves must be regularly sprayed with settled water at room temperature. In winter, when indoor temperatures are low, spraying will not be necessary. But, if it is not possible to provide the plant with cool conditions, spraying should be carried out several times a day. Operating heating radiators at home causes the air to become dry, causing leaves to fall from the tree. To avoid this, you need to increase the air humidity around the plant. To do this, you can use special humidifiers or place a flower pot on a tray with damp expanded clay or moss.

Watering myrtle. Water the tree abundantly in spring and summer, as soon as the top layer of soil dries out. In winter, in a cool room, the frequency and abundance of watering decreases. Under no circumstances should the earthen clod be allowed to dry out! Otherwise, the leaves of the indoor plant may fly off and the branches may dry out. If the soil is still dry, place the pot in a container of water for a few minutes. Also, do not allow the soil to be wet all the time. Constant waterlogging of the soil can lead to rotting of the roots. Water for irrigation is used to stand for 24 hours.

Feeding myrtle. From March to August, once a week or two, the flower must be fed with fertilizers for flowering plants. If myrtle is grown as a bonsai and its flowering does not interest you, then fertilizers are used that are intended for decorative deciduous plants.

Rest period. Myrtle definitely needs a period of rest, during which it gains strength to flower and grow foliage. Therefore, in winter the plant is grown in cool rooms for three months. You can place the flower on a closed loggia, where the air temperature does not drop below +5 degrees. At this time, watering should be sparse, and fertilizing and spraying should be stopped. In a warm room, the dormant period of myrtle lasts about one and a half months.

To give the tree the desired shape, pruning should be included in your myrtle care at home. It can be done in early spring and after flowering. To get a tree, the side shoots are pruned. A bush-shaped plant will be obtained by trimming the upper branches. If you don't trim the myrtle at all, it will take on a pyramidal shape. However, it should be remembered that frequent pinching has a negative effect on the formation of flowers, so it is not recommended to get too carried away with pruning. If flowering is not too important for you, then you can experiment and pinch out the branches. The myrtle houseplant grows quickly, so its appearance can be changed every year.

Transplanting myrtle

A tree purchased at a flower shop should be transplanted into new soil one to two weeks after purchase. In the future, young plants are replanted every year, and adults - once every two to three years. The new pot should be 2-3 cm larger than the previous one. The substrate can be bought at the store or prepared yourself. The following soil mixtures are suitable:

1. Sand, peat, turf and humus soil. Everything is taken in equal parts and mixed.
2. Sand, turf, humus, clay, peat soil (1:2:2:2:2).

It is necessary to pour drainage into the bottom of the pot, which is covered with a small layer of nutritious soil. The tree is carefully removed along with a lump of earth from the old pot and placed on a layer of soil in a new container. The roots around and above are covered with soil. There is no need to fill the base of the trunk. Transplanted myrtle must be watered immediately.

Pests and diseases of myrtle

Pests

With proper care and maintenance of the plant in favorable conditions, no diseases or pests will affect it.

High temperatures and dry air are favorable conditions for the appearance of scale insects, thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies on tree leaves. They all feed on the sap of the plant, which is why the leaves begin to dry out, turn yellow and fly off. Treatment with Actellik or Aktara will help get rid of pests. These are insecticidal preparations that should be diluted and used strictly according to the instructions.

This situation may arise if the rules for caring for myrtle at home were not followed. Myrtle leaves dry out for the following reasons:

1. Irregular watering. If you forget to water a plant and its soil often dries out, then not only the leaves, but also the twigs will begin to dry out.
2. Low air humidity. In winter, the air temperature for the flower should not exceed +18 degrees. In a room with heating radiators running, the air becomes dry, which is why the leaves begin to dry out and fall off. Spray foliage in a dry and warm room more often and more abundantly. Keep it on a tray with wet expanded clay, pebbles or moss, but so that the water does not reach the bottom of the pot.

Myrtle leaves are falling

This situation may arise in the following cases:

• lack of light;
• high air temperature;
• the plant is in a draft.

With excessive lighting (in summer on southern windows), the leaves lose their shine, turn yellow and curl. If there is not enough light for the plant, the stems become elongated and the leaves grow pale and small.

As you can see, all problems when growing myrtle at home arise from improper placement of the flower or errors in care. Care for the plant according to all the rules described above, and it will delight you with a beautiful, lush crown and flowering.

Cuttings are the most reliable and best way to propagate myrtle. Its seeds quickly lose their viability; in addition, when propagated by seeds, flowering will occur only after three years.

Cuttings can be taken from friends after formative pruning of the tree. It is best if they come from the middle or lower part of the crown. Rooting of cuttings should be carried out in January, February and July. For cuttings, semi-lignified shoots of the current year with a length of 8 to 10 cm are selected.

Procedure for rooting cuttings:

1. The lower leaves are removed from the cut shoot.
2. The large leaves located at the top are shortened by half, and the small ones - by a third of the length.
3. The lower cut is treated with a root formation stimulator (Heterauxin or Kornevin).
4. A wide and low container is prepared.
5. The soil for rooting should consist of sand and sphagnum (0.5:1) or sand and leaf soil (0.5:1).
6. The cuttings are placed in moist soil and covered with a glass jar or other transparent cap.
7. The containers are placed in a shaded place with an air temperature within +17...+20 degrees.
8. To prevent the soil from turning sour, the cover must be removed briefly every day.

After about a month, the roots will grow, and the cuttings are planted in separate pots with a diameter of about 7 cm. The same soil mixture is used. Caring for young seedlings involves regularly moistening the soil and spraying the foliage. It is necessary to ensure that the soil does not dry out.

When the cuttings grow up, which will happen in about a year, the plants are transplanted into pots, the diameter of which should be 9 cm. Rooted and grown bushes should be cared for in the same way as adult trees.

Properties of myrtle

The plant has healing properties, since its fruits and young shoots contain active substances and essential oils with antibacterial effects. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the tree in children's rooms and bedrooms, where it will clear the air of bacteria and germs, protect health, and help cope with the flu and acute respiratory infections.

Myrtle tinctures help treat cough, purulent otitis, staphylococcal infections, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and diabetes.

Myrtle - signs

In different countries, growing indoor myrtle has different attitudes.

In Europe, they believe that wood brings love and peace to the home. But this is possible if the bush was planted by the owner of the house and all family members are proud of their beautiful pet. Myrtle is carefully looked after so that the flower does not die. Otherwise, luck will leave the house along with the dead tree.

Muslims do not keep myrtle in their homes, because according to their superstitions, it is believed that this plant dooms young girls and boys to loneliness.

It is recommended to grow a beautiful tree with healing properties at home, while observing all the rules for caring for it. Myrtle needs a family hearth, so it is not suitable for offices and public institutions.

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

Myrtle - plant features

Myrtle is native to the Mediterranean, but it also grows in North Africa(in Europe it freezes after the first frost). Depending on the variety, the 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 ground. The bush is even pruned to give the crown the desired shape.

A bright representative of the family is the common 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 calyx of the flower is attached.

After flowering, dark round or elliptical fruits with seeds are formed on myrtle.

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 home use. Caring for them is simple, but they need to create acceptable conditions, for example, high air humidity, ventilation and regular watering.

Indoor varieties

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

1. Alhambra - dense, leathery leaves, white fruits and flowers.
2. Microphylla is a dwarf tree with small leaves.
3. Flora Pleno - distinguished 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. Boetica is a slow-growing tree, its trunk curls over time and is a rich shade of cinnamon.

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

Photo gallery: domestic species of myrtle

Myrtle Alhambra is distinguished by its abundant flowering and fragrant fruits.
The easiest variety to find on sale is Microphylla Double flowers - perhaps the only thing that distinguishes Flore Pleno from other varieties
Myrtle Tarentina Variegada is decorated with elegant leaves with a white edge. Myrtle Boethica has large leaves, larger than those of 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 shaping, making it relatively easy to grow in bonsai style.

But the most original trees will come from the Boethica variety and the dwarf Microphylla: their crown and trunk are easy to form due to the slow growth and pliability of the shoots.

Planting and transplanting

It is best to replant an adult myrtle once every 3–4 years, and young plants are replanted annually in the spring. When transplanting myrtle, you should not bury the root collar of the plant: this can lead to various diseases or rot. Be sure to place a good layer of drainage at the bottom of the pot.

General rules for replanting myrtle:

1. Plants up to 3 years old are replanted every year in a pot 2–3 cm wider (enough to accommodate the root system) than the previous one; the roots are not cleared of soil, they are reloaded and a little fresh soil is added. And also the container for replanting can be selected based on the size of the plant crown: the volume of the pot should be half the volume of the plant crown.
2. Plants after 3 years are replanted as they grow, when the roots completely entangle the soil.
3. Transplantation is done in the spring, before flowering begins.
4. Young myrtle can be replanted after flowering.
5. Every year, adult plants change the top layer of soil that is not entangled by roots, cutting it off carefully with a knife and adding a fresh portion. During this procedure, the root system is not processed and generally tried not to be affected.
6. Myrtle has sensitive and delicate roots, so they cannot 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 below requirements are only suitable for trees older than 3 years:

1. Prepare the soil.
2. Free the root system from part old land, leaving a small lump to fill more than half of the new soil into the pot.
3. Plant in a new pot. To avoid damaging the roots, you can rinse them in warm water.
4. The plant is not deepened; to do this, a mark of the old ground level is made on the trunk.
5. Fill the voids with new soil.
6. Leave the plant alone for several days.
7. Watering is permissible after 7–15 days.
8. Start fertilizing myrtle no earlier than 1 month after transplantation.

Young myrtle trees are replanted 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, purchase slightly acidic ready-made soil or mix:

• peat;
• turf land;
• coarse sand.

Myrtle is recommended for slightly acidic soil Ph 6–6.5; all universal commercial soils have this acidity. The main thing is that the soil is loose and allows water to pass through well. Water should not stagnate. Be sure to have good drainage at the bottom. It is necessary to settle the water for irrigation and spraying; if it is very hard, it can be acidified.

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

Caring for myrtle

Caring for myrtle differs little from 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 fertilizing

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

Spraying (or periodic showering) will help cope with drooping leaves and restore their elasticity and bright color. These procedures also prevent many diseases and pests. Spray myrtle during the active period every day or several times a day. To facilitate care and ensure suitable air humidity, which should be high, place an air humidifier in the room or put expanded clay in the tray of the pot and water it with water. Spraying provides 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 a pot with a plant on a tray with wet expanded clay, just make sure that the bottom of the pot does not touch the expanded clay - that is, place the pot on a tray, and then place them on a tray with wet expanded clay. Also, after transplanting, you should keep the plant under a transparent bag. You need to make a hole in it to allow fresh air to enter, 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, during 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 to the soil when replanting, then you can forget about ready-made compounds until summer. In other cases, myrtle is fed with complex fertilizers in the spring, and after flowering begins and until its end with nitrogen fertilizers. This plant also accepts feeding 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 beginning, the volume of watering and the frequency of spraying are increased.

In order for fruits to appear, insects are needed, but at home pollination in this way is almost impossible, so this is done manually using 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 tight 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 period of rest in winter to gain strength for the next season of rapid growth and intense flowering. If in summer and warm spring the best place for it is a balcony, loggia, garden in the fresh air, then in winter an adult plant feels better at a temperature of 6–12 o C and without additional lighting. 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 fertilizing is excluded. The plant is prepared gradually for the dormant period: they begin to reduce 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 kept in a warm and well-lit room with additional lighting.

Formation of the trunk and crown

To keep the shape of myrtle beautiful, it is periodically pruned. 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 myrtle crown, it takes on a pyramidal shape.

Shoots can be bent and tied, entangled with soft wire, but with caution

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 quite short.

Video: forming a tree

Bonsai at home

Many people are fond of this extraordinary activity, and myrtle is perfect for forming bonsai. It is advisable to choose slow-growing and dwarf varieties (for example, Boethica or Microphylla). To form the crown, the upper leaves are regularly pinched and unnecessary branches are trimmed, preventing flowering. It is then that the crown will be lush and dense, and its shape will be compact and consistent with the given one.

Thus, the barrel of Boetics can be directed towards different sides: it is pliable, but you shouldn’t squeeze 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 mismatched pot can create obstacles to the normal functioning of the root system, which will lead to the rapid death of the tree

Errors in care

When growing myrtle, various problems arise, often associated with improper maintenance of the plant. Below are the most common reasons why your plant may not look healthy.

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 film.
5. Ventilate at least once a day, preventing the soil from souring.
6. Add complex fertilizers for ornamental foliage plants.

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

Diseases and pests, methods of treatment

Myrtle also becomes vulnerable to pests if conditions are violated.

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

Photo gallery: signs of affected plants

When attacked by scale insects, the sticky liquid (the so-called honeydew) serves as an excellent haven for the development of sooty fungus. Leaf aphids quickly weaken young plants by sucking out their cell sap. One of the main signs of the presence of whiteflies is the presence of a sticky coating - honeydew When a plant has a fungal disease, most often the best solution is to isolate the affected plant or destroy it. The presence of spider mites is indicated by the presence of small white dots on the leaves (mainly on the underside) and the presence of a thin cobweb entwining the plants (or parts thereof)

Myrtle propagation

Myrtle is propagated mainly by cuttings; propagation by seeds is undesirable: plants lose varietal characteristics (shredding of leaves and flowers). In addition, cuttings are a more reliable method: 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 (January-February), and then you should focus on spring or mid-summer (July). For quick rooting, you can use stimulants.

To prevent moisture evaporation, leaves are removed from the bottom of the cuttings 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.

Propagation by seeds

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

In addition, it is worth considering that seeds have a tendency to decrease 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 it in relatively warm soil. Without pre-cooling, the seed may 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 damp cotton or paper swabs, onto which the seeds are placed.
3. The seeds in this form are placed in the refrigerator; the temperature should be within 1–5 o C.
4. Keep for 1.5–2 months in this condition.

To increase efficiency, add Zircon to the water for initial 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 o C.

Before soaking the seeds, shake the container with the Zircon solution.

Possible problems during germination

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

• seeds do not germinate;
• abundant condensation has caused mold to form;
• 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 up to you: take into account 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 fungicidal substances.

Perhaps the situation is aggravated by acidified 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 care recommendations to avoid problematic “what to do” in the future.

Exported to Europe several centuries ago, myrtle has taken root well in homes and feels great. Today there are about a hundred species of myrtle trees, of which common 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 pay them a little attention: simple care with plenty of watering.

Among the ancient Greeks, myrtle was considered a symbol of youth, beauty and chastity. Even then, the beneficial effects of essential oils were noted. Noble townspeople washed themselves with water infused with myrtle. Wine infusion of myrtle fruits was used as an elixir of health and vigor. By releasing phytoncides, myrtle destroys pathogenic microbes; even in extremely small doses, phytoncides kill tuberculosis and diphtheria bacilli and other bacteria. A plant with a total leaf area of ​​1.5 m² can purify 100 cubic meters of air by 40-50%, kills up to 22% of streptococci and up to 40% of staphylococci. Helps cope with flu and acute respiratory infections.

Myrtle. © Sarah Gregg Content:

Description of myrtle

Myrtle (lat. Myrtus)- a genus of southern evergreen woody plants with white fluffy flowers and dark green leaves containing essential oil. Also, myrtle used to be called a wreath of flowers and leaves of such a tree or its branch - a symbol of silence, peace and pleasure.

Myrtle is a fragrant evergreen tree. It has dark green, seemingly polished leaves and beautiful flowers. Myrtle leaves contain essential oil, which was used to make incense. Myrtle was a sign of glory and blessings. In ancient times, a myrtle wreath with roses was a favorite wedding decoration.

Mythology of myrtle

In ancient times, myrtle was an attribute of the goddess Venus and her three maids - the three graces. During the Renaissance, the evergreen myrtle began to symbolize eternal love, especially marital fidelity.

During the Renaissance, the evergreen myrtle began to symbolize eternal love, especially marital fidelity.

The word “myrtle” itself is of Greek origin. Legend has it that the nymph Myrsina, whom Athena herself admired and admired, defeated this supreme goddess of Olympus in a running competition. Envy overshadowed her admiration for her favorite, and Athena killed the nymph in revenge for her hurt pride. But having come to her senses, she was horrified and began to pray to the council of the Olympian gods so that they would leave her at least some memory of Mirsin. The gods took pity, and from the body of the deceased, an elegant plant, like the nymph herself, grew - myrtle.

According to legend, Aphrodite was crowned with a wreath of myrtle during the famous dispute, thanks to which Paris gave her his apple. Since then, myrtle has become the favorite flower of the goddess of love and beauty, sometimes she even called herself Myrthea. Many myrtle bushes were planted around the temples of Aphrodite, and during the annual festivals in honor of this goddess, everyone was decorated with myrtle wreaths.

Features of growing myrtle

Bloom: usually in summer and until mid-autumn.

Height: Myrtle grows quite slowly: annual growth is 10-15 cm.

Light: bright diffused; The plant can tolerate some amount of sunlight.

Temperature: in spring and summer moderate or slightly below moderate, 18-20 °C; V winter months The myrtle tree is best kept at a temperature of 5 °C and not higher than 8-10 °C.

Watering: from spring to autumn it is regular and abundant (as the top layer of the substrate dries), in winter it is limited.

Air humidity: From spring to autumn the plant is sprayed.

Feeding: From spring to autumn, myrtle is fertilized weekly with flower fertilizer.

Trimming: Plants can withstand pruning and trimming, so they can be given any shape.

Rest period: in winter; The plant is kept in a bright, cool (5-10 °C) place with limited watering.

Transfer: young plants are replanted every year in the spring, without burying the base of the trunk into the soil; later replanting is carried out if necessary after 2-3 years.

Reproduction: The plant propagates by seeds and cuttings.

Caring for myrtle

Myrtle loves bright, diffused light and tolerates some direct sunlight. Suitable for growing near western and eastern windows. At south-facing windows in the summer, it is necessary to provide the plant with protection from the midday sun. It can grow in a north window, but flowering will be less abundant. In winter, myrtle is placed in the most illuminated places.

In summer, myrtle can be placed outdoors, in a place where protection from direct midday sun is provided. The plant should be accustomed to the new level of illumination gradually. Some gardeners bury a pot of myrtle directly into the ground to harden the plant for the summer.

Myrtle loves cool weather; in spring and summer it needs moderate or slightly below moderate temperatures (18-20 °C). During the winter months, the myrtle tree is best kept at a temperature of 5 °C and not higher than 8-10 °C. At higher than optimal winter temperatures, the plant may lose its leaves.

Myrtle needs an influx of fresh air.

Myrtle is watered regularly and abundantly from spring to autumn (as the top layer of the substrate dries), in winter - limitedly, with soft, settled water. Under no circumstances should the soil be allowed to dry out even briefly. If the substrate is nevertheless dry, watering is used by immersing the pot in a container of water. At the same time, you need to make sure that the water does not stagnate in the pan.

You should carefully monitor air humidity. Although in the natural conditions of myrtle growth the air humidity rarely exceeds 60%, in rooms with central heating it is usually half that. From spring to autumn, the plant should be sprayed regularly. For spraying, you should use only soft, settled or filtered water. In winter, when kept cool, the plant is not sprayed.

From spring to autumn, myrtle is fertilized, as already noted, weekly with flower fertilizer.

Myrtle has a pronounced dormant period. Depending on the position in the room, myrtle is at rest from 3 (on the north window) to 1.5 (on the south) months.

Myrtle easily tolerates cutting, and it can be given a very fancy shape. Several ways of forming a plant are given: “If myrtle (that’s what myrtle was called in Russia at the beginning of the 20th century) is left to itself, then the plant will take the shape of a pyramid. If you cut off the top shoot, it takes the shape of a bush; if, finally, you cut off the side shoots, then the myrtle takes the shape of a crowned tree and branches at the top.”

However, the author does not advise getting too carried away with pruning side shoots, especially in young plants, since the myrtle stem is not strong enough. Also, you should not pinch young shoots too often - this reduces the intensity of flowering. Therefore, when caring for myrtle, you need to decide what is preferable - highly branching compact bushes or beautifully flowering specimens with a loose crown.

Young plants are replanted every year in the spring, without burying the base of the trunk into the soil; subsequently, replanting is carried out if necessary after 2-3 years. The following mixtures are recommended as a substrate: 1) turf-humus-peat soil and sand in equal parts; 2) ordinary greenhouse soil; 3) clay-turf-peat-humus soil and sand (1:1:1:0.5). The pH of the substrate should be around 5-6. The bottom of the pot provides a good layer of drainage.

Myrtle propagation

Myrtle is propagated by seeds and cuttings.

Propagation of myrtle by seeds

For sowing, we make a mixture of peat and sand in a 1:1 ratio (you can mix peat with vermiculite (1:1)). The substrate is moistened (the substrate can be shed with a fungicide).

The seeds are distributed over the surface of the substrate and sprinkled with a thin layer of substrate on top. The container with the seeds is covered with glass or a transparent bag (or cling film). The temperature is maintained at least +18..20 °C. Ventilate periodically by removing the cover. The substrate must be kept moist; try not to over-moisten or over-dry.

Typically, seedlings germinate in 7-14 days. When the seedlings grow two true leaves, they are planted in pots of the appropriate size. The substrate is made up of turf soil - 1 tsp, humus - 1 tsp, peat - 1 tsp and sand - 1 tsp. After transshipment, the seedlings may freeze in growth for a while, after a while they usually start growing again.

After entwining a clod of earth with roots, transshipment is done. Further care is the same as for adult plants.

Myrtle grown from seeds blooms in the 5th year of life.

Propagation of myrtle by cuttings

Myrtle is propagated by semi-lignified cuttings in January-February and in July in summer. Cuttings are taken from the lower and middle parts of the crown, cutting size is 5-8 cm; To reduce evaporation, half of the existing leaves are cut off and the remaining ones are shortened. It is useful to treat the cut with growth stimulants. N. Tsybulya and co-authors recommend using heteroauxin in a mixture with ascorbic acid (0.25% 0). Root in boxes, bowls, wide low pots in a mixture of leaf soil and coarse sand, or sphagnum and sand in a cool (16-20 ° C) shaded place.

The cuttings are watered, sprayed and covered with glass or plastic film. Occasionally the soil is ventilated to avoid rotting of the cuttings and souring of the soil. Cuttings take root within 20-30 days. Rooted cuttings are planted in 7-centimeter pots. The substrate is made up of turf soil - 1 tsp, humus - 1 tsp, peat - 1 tsp and sand - 1 tsp. Water generously. Young plants are pinched to stimulate flowering. After entwining a clod of earth with roots, transshipment occurs. A plant from cuttings blooms in 3-4 years.

Myrtle species

To the family Myrtle (Myrtus) belongs to 16 to 40 species of the Myrtaceae family. Species of the genus Myrtle are widespread in North Africa, Western Asia, and on the islands Caribbean Sea, in Florida (USA), in the Azores, in Europe (Mediterranean region).

One species is widely known in culture - Common myrtle M. communis.

Common myrtle (Myrtus communis). It grows in the undergrowth of evergreen oaks and pines and in bushes in the Mediterranean region, the Azores, and North Africa. Trees or shrubs up to 3-4 m tall; shoots are 4-sided, finely hairy, rounded, glabrous. The leaves are opposite, sometimes collected in groups of 3, ovate, lanceolate, 2-4 (to 5) cm long and 1-2 cm wide, pointed, leathery, entire, smooth, glabrous, glossy.

If you look at a myrtle leaf in the light, you can see small dots filled with essential oil, thanks to which the plant emits a pleasant aroma. The white flowers of the plant are the most fragrant. They are small (up to 2 cm in diameter), five-petaled, located one at a time on long stalks. Numerous golden stamens give them a special uniqueness.

In nature, myrtle reaches a height of 3-5 m. In cultivation, the plant is low (about 60 cm), rarely reaching 1 m.

Common myrtle has many cultural forms, differing in leaf position and flowering ability.

Possible difficulties when growing myrtle

If there is not enough light, the stems stretch, the leaves become smaller and turn pale, but if there is too much light, they become dull, turn yellow, and the edges curl. In a dark room with high temperature, the plant sheds its leaves.

The plant suffers greatly due to overdrying and overwatering of the substrate. If the plant has dropped its leaves due to dryness or waterlogging, the shoots should be cut to half and continue watering (in case of waterlogging, watering very carefully) and spraying. After two weeks, young leaves may appear.

If the placement is too warm and dark, leaves may fall off. If suddenly the leaves of the myrtle begin to fall off, then the problem is due to improper watering: it is either insufficient or excessive. In this case, it is recommended to immerse the overdried plant in water and replant the over-watered one. However, most often the plant cannot be saved.

Pests primarily attack old specimens. This is also facilitated by too high air temperatures in winter.

The myrtle tree is one of the most attractive and interesting indoor plants. Pleasant aroma, beautiful flowering, ease of shaping, high decorative value - myrtle has these advantages. Care at home is organized according to certain rules. You will learn about them from this article.

Description of the plant

The Myrtle family is well known among gardeners. There are about 10 varieties of myrtle in total. The homeland of the plant is the Mediterranean. Grows in subtropical climates. In natural conditions it is a shrub or tree up to 3 meters high. When grown in an apartment it reaches 60 cm.

The leaves are small, shiny, leathery, oval, dark green. If you rub them in your hand, they emit a pleasant spicy aroma. The main part of essential oils is concentrated in small veins. The flowers are small on long stalks, with five petals and many stamens. Color - white or pale pink. The fruits are round small berries of intense blue color.

Subtleties of cultivation

A full-fledged one is organized in accordance with a number of rules. Myrtle is considered a capricious plant, often refusing to bloom or dropping its leaves. Creating optimal conditions for growth and flowering helps to avoid this.

1. Lighting and location selection. It easily tolerates direct rays of the sun, but prefers diffused light. In hot weather it is shaded. It blooms only when there is enough light. The optimal location is window sills facing west or east. In summer, the flower is moved to fresh air. In winter they provide full lighting.
2. Temperature. In the summer season they are kept at 18-20 °C. In winter, the plant needs coolness. Myrtle is moved to a glazed balcony or loggia with temperatures not lower than 6-8 °C. After a full rest, myrtle blooms magnificently and for a long time. When wintering in a room, the flower is well watered and systematically sprayed. This helps prevent leaf drop, but does not guarantee flowering.
3. Humidity. Grows better in high humidity. It responds to spraying with warm, well-settled water by unanimously releasing new shoots. The need for moisture increases during periods of increased growth. At this time, the procedure is carried out daily. Additionally, air humidifiers and trays filled with water are used.
4. Watering. Water the plant frequently - as soon as the top layer of soil begins to dry out. In winter, the need for water is less, but the soil should not be allowed to dry out completely. Stable soil moisture is maintained all year round. Do not allow water to stagnate at the bottom of the pot.


5. The soil. The soil for myrtle is chosen to be nutritious, not heavy, and of moderate acidity. A mixture of peat, humus and turf with the addition of sand or perlite is best.
6. Feeding. During the period of active growth, fertilize frequently - every week. For abundant flowering, choose fertilizers with a high phosphorus content. Complex preparations for decorative deciduous crops are regularly used.
7. Transfer. Until the age of four, the bushes are replanted annually. Mature trees - once every 3-4 years. The optimal time is spring, before flowering. When transplanting, do not allow the root collar to deepen. A thick layer of drainage is provided at the bottom of the planting container. The size of the pot is determined by the diameter of the crown - it should be half that size. Myrtle will not bloom in a large pot.
8. Trimming and shaping. Myrtle is an indoor flower that is very easy to shape. It tolerates shearing easily and quickly produces young shoots. Myrtle is pruned in early spring before active growth begins. The method of pruning depends on the desired result. Throughout the summer, the crown of the plant is adjusted, pinching out too long young shoots.

Reproduction methods

Propagating myrtle is not difficult even for novice gardeners. Young plants are obtained by cuttings and sowing seeds.

By cuttings

Cuttings are cut twice a year - in the middle of winter or summer. Select semi-lignified branches from the middle or lower part of the crown. The optimal length of the cutting is from 5 to 8 cm. Half of the leaves are removed from the cutting, the remaining half is cut off. The lower cut is dipped in a growth stimulator. A mixture of heteroauxin with 0.25% ascorbic acid gives a good effect. The container is filled with a light substrate of sphagnum and sand. The cuttings are placed in it at a slight angle and covered with film. The greenhouse with cuttings is placed in a cool, shaded place. During the rooting stage, maintain a temperature of 16-20 °C. The greenhouse is periodically ventilated, the humidity level is monitored, and if necessary, the soil is watered and the cuttings are sprayed. They take root quickly - no longer than a month. The seedlings are transplanted into pots with a diameter of 7 cm (an ordinary plastic cup will do). When the roots completely entwine the clod of earth, transfer them to a larger pot. The first flowering is no earlier than after 3 years.

Seeds

Myrtle grows more slowly from seeds. When using seed material collected from the mother plant, the characteristics of the variety may differ. The substrate for germination is a mixture of peat and vermiculite. Before sowing, it is watered with a weak solution of fungicide. Myrtle seeds are scattered over the surface and covered with a very thin layer of substrate. The planting container is covered with glass. Maintain the temperature at 18-20 °C, monitor the soil moisture - it should not be overdried or waterlogged. Every day, the glass is removed briefly to ventilate the greenhouse. When favorable conditions are created, seedlings appear in 1-2 weeks. Dive into separate pots in the phase of 2 true leaves. Flowering - no earlier than 5 years of life.

Diseases, problems and pests

Young myrtle rarely gets sick. Mature and old bushes are less resistant to pests and negative factors.

• Aphids and scale insects. They attack the plant when there is insufficient moisture. Conditions are adjusted and treatment is carried out with anticoccidal agents.
• Spider mite. Appears when there is insufficient soil moisture. Myrtle is treated with insecticides.
• Fungi and putrefactive bacteria. Their appearance provokes constant waterlogging of the soil. The plant is replanted, removing the affected parts.
• Yellow, dull leaves with curled edges. A sign of excessive lighting.
• Grinding leaves, pulling stems. The reason is poor lighting.
• Falling leaves. Increased temperature and dry air in winter or stagnation of water in the root system.

Growing myrtle at home is a difficult but exciting activity. Once you master shaping, you can give your myrtle any shape.

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Botanical description of myrtle species

Growing myrtle is not difficult, and even novice amateur gardeners can care for such a flower. In our country, in addition to the common species, in home floriculture they also prefer to grow the indoor flower Myrtle Sahara.

Common myrtle and its varieties

This species is best suited for keeping at home. A small tree or shrub plant with small glossy leaves and white fragrant flowers has become the basis for the breeding of several highly decorative and fairly unpretentious varieties and forms that differ in color, size and shape of foliage and flowers:

• variety "Boetics" or Boetica has large, rich green leaves no more than 70 mm long. The variety is slow growing;
• variety "Variegata" or Variegata refers to variegated forms with yellow-green leaves;
• variety "Tarentine" or Tarentina is characterized by the small size of the aerial part. The variegated variety Tarentina Variegata and Tarentina Granada with original creamy-colored fruits are especially popular;
• variety "Alhambra" or Alhambra is unpretentious and produces light greenish colored fruits. The foliage is small in size, bright green, elongated in shape;
• variety "Flore Pleno" or Flore Pleno forms numerous double flowers that are quite large and retain their visual appeal for a long time;
• variety "Compact" or Compasta belongs to the category of low-growing forms that form a dense and fairly dense crown, as well as lush white flowers.

Almost any variety belonging to this species is very easy to propagate and does not require special care from the grower.

Saharan myrtle

Myrtus nivellei grows mainly in the mountainous regions of Tassili-n-Ajjer, in the southern part of Algeria and in Chad. This species belongs to the category of endangered plants. therefore it is protected. A popular endemic shrub with a height of the aboveground part of no more than two meters, characterized by large size and lanceolate foliage. The length of the leaves does not exceed 40-50mm. Fruits are black in color.

Signs and superstitions associated with the myrtle tree

The myrtle tree is very popular in many countries as a plant that brings family happiness. It is customary to give such a flower to young married couples in order to strengthen their mutual understanding. In ancient times, myrtle branches were used to adorn the bride's head. It is also believed that such a decorative crop can give its owner unfading beauty and eternal youth.

How to properly replant myrtle after purchase

If the plant is sold in transport soil, then replanting is a prerequisite for growing. As a nutritious soil substrate for planting, it is advisable to use a mixture based on one part of sod-peat soil and one part of humus-peat soil with the addition of one part of sifted medium-grained sand. A sufficient layer of drainage is poured onto the bottom of the flower pot. Transplantation is carried out by transferring the root system with an earthen lump.

Myrtle propagation methods

Propagation of decorative perennials grown in indoor floriculture is carried out by cuttings and using seed material.

Growing from seeds

Seeds are sown in a nutritious soil mixture based on one part sifted sand and one part peat with the addition of a small amount of vermiculite. It is recommended to pre-spray the substrate with any fungicide. The seed material is carefully distributed over the surface of the nutrient substrate, after which it is sprinkled with a thin layer of soil.

The container with the crops is covered with plexiglass or film. Germination of perennials should be carried out at a temperature of 18-20°C. Crops are regularly ventilated and moistened. If all requirements are fully met, seedlings appear in one or two weeks. Flowering occurs after five years.

Features of growing a myrtle tree (video)

How to propagate myrtle from cuttings

Semi-lignified cuttings should be cut for propagation in January or early February, as well as in mid-summer. Cuttings taken in the lower or middle area of ​​the crown root best. The maximum length of the cutting should not exceed 80mm. Half of the leaves are cut off completely, which will reduce moisture evaporation. Otherwise, the cutting dries out and planting it is impractical.

The cut area is treated with growth stimulants, after which rooting is carried out in a mixture of leaf soil and coarse sand. The temperature should be 16-20°C. Young plants are pinched to stimulate flowering, which occurs in the third or fourth year.

Myrtle blooming in the house

The decorative perennial enters the flowering phase in early or mid-summer. The flowering of the plant is not only attractive, but also accompanied by a very pleasant aroma.

When and how does a houseplant bloom?

Flowers are of regular or double type, and are located in the leaf axils, singly or collected in racemes. A significant part of the flowers blooms, as a rule, in the apical part of the plant that is most illuminated by the sun's rays.

To get flowering it is very important not to prune in the spring, and also provide the decorative crop with an influx of fresh air and quality care at all stages of the growing season. If the growing technology is not followed, the plant dries out and there is no flowering.

How to replant myrtle (video)

Caring for myrtle at home

In order for myrtle not to dry out and die, to retain its decorative appeal for many years, and also to please the amateur gardener with abundant and stable flowering, the plant needs to be provided with a comfortable stay and competent care at all stages of the growing season.

Lighting, temperature and humidity

Bright natural light is one of the main requirements for growing myrtle in indoor floriculture. Throughout the year, illumination levels should be at least 6000-8000 lux. A sufficient amount of sunlight guarantees a dense and dense crown, as well as stable and abundant flowering.

It is best to place a flower pot with a plant on the south, south-east and south-west windows, without shading. When grown on northern windows, strong elongation of shoots, paleness and falling of leaves, and lack of flowering are observed. If necessary, the perennial needs to be provided with additional illumination with sufficiently powerful, special phytolamps for ten hours.

The temperature should be moderately warm in spring and summer, at 18-25°C. Wintering is carried out in a cool room, at a temperature within 5-8°C. If in winter the plant is grown at too high a temperature, then partial leaf shedding is often observed. Besides everything else, At low temperatures in winter, flower buds are formed.

A very important parameter when cultivating home myrtle is compliance with optimal performance indoor air humidity is within 60-65%. If the air in the room is excessively dry, the crown of the ornamental tree should be sprayed regularly. It is also recommended to sometimes give the plant a warm shower to refresh the foliage and remove all dust accumulations from it.

Features and frequency of watering

Adult ornamental plants require fairly frequent and abundant irrigation. At the stage of activation of the growing season, the decorative crop is watered immediately after the top layer of soil in the flower pot has dried.

In winter, at the dormant stage, cool temperature conditions make irrigation activities less frequent . Important to remember, that both waterlogging and drying out of the soil is very dangerous for the crop. In the first case, very often the plant is affected by a fungal infection. For irrigation, settled and soft water at room temperature is used.

Fertilizing

For the full development of myrtle, maintaining intensive growth processes and abundant flowering, the perennial must be properly fed. For this purpose, you can use any universal fertilizers suitable for feeding decorative deciduous and flowering indoor plants. This fertilizer is diluted in accordance with the instructions supplied by the manufacturer. There is no need to feed the crop in winter.

Pruning and crown formation

Decorative perennials of any variety tolerate pruning and pinching very well, regardless of the time of year. However, one must take into account the fact that in adult wintering plants that are in the dormant stage, only a couple of branches can be cut off painlessly.

For actively vegetating specimens that are in the stage of growth and development, radical pruning of the crown is ideal. The best time For pruning it is spring or the last ten days of winter. Cuttings can be used to propagate indoor plants vegetatively.

Possible problems during cultivation

If it is completely impossible to move a flower pot with indoor myrtle to a room with a low temperature regime, it is necessary to fence off part of the window sill space with ordinary plastic film. Besides everything else, it is very important to systematically spray the leaves with a spray bottle settled water at room temperature. Stretching of shoots is the main sign of a lack of natural sunlight, so the indoor flower will need to be illuminated with special phytolamps.

Reproduction and pruning of myrtle (video)

Myrtle is one of the heat-loving indoor perennials native to the Mediterranean. This decorative crop is perfect for interior decoration, and also has a number of useful properties, which determines its high popularity.

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How to properly care for myrtle at home

Myrtle- This is a very interesting plant, part of the corresponding Myrtaceae family. It grows in Mediterranean countries with subtropical climatic conditions. In general, the name itself is of Greek origin and comes from the word “incense.” This name is explained by the fact that the leaves and flowers of this plant contain essential oils, which emit a very pleasant and soothing aroma.

Externally myrtle is a beautiful small tree with elongated and pointed leaves arranged oppositely. The leaves are bright green in color and their petioles are short.

How to water?

When caring for myrtle, it is very important to ensure regular watering: we must not forget that the plant comes from the subtropics, and therefore loves moisture very much. Along with watering, the tree should be sprayed daily. If the soil is not sufficiently moistened, the plant will begin to turn yellow and dry out.

In winter, the watering rules change somewhat: it is necessary to switch to a moderate mode, i.e. one watering per week. There is also no need for spraying (unless the tree is left in a warm room).

Lighting

It is best to place myrtle on the south side of the house. In principle, myrtle will grow on the eastern side and even on the western side. But it is in this place, on the southern windows, that the plant will feel as comfortable as possible and will be able to bloom. At the same time, keep in mind that at midday, especially in summer, the tree should be somewhat shaded. To do this, use a screen or curtain.

Temperature and humidity

When choosing a temperature regime, you should again take into account the natural habitat of the plant. For this reason, in summer the optimal temperature is about 22-24 degrees. It will be useful to take the tree out into the garden or onto the balcony. If you keep myrtle in your apartment all the time, do not forget to ventilate the room.

With all this, it is necessary to ensure an appropriate level of humidity: in summer it should be quite high.

A little about feeding

When caring for myrtle, you can safely use complex fertilizers intended for flowering indoor plants. In summer, the optimal frequency of feeding is weekly. In winter, this can be done monthly.

Transplanting myrtle

Myrtle is a slow-growing plant, and therefore it is not recommended to replant it too often. At the same time, all young trees should be replanted annually, increasing the volume of the pot. Adult plants can be in one pot for about 3-4 years.
The most optimal time for replanting is winter, when the tree is dormant.

The entire transplant process looks like this:

• It is first recommended to dry the earthen ball, for which you do not water for several days. This will make it easier to remove the plant;
• Then you simply need to turn over the old pot with the plant and carefully pull out the tree, holding it by the base of the trunk;
• The roots of the plant need to be treated with some kind of stimulant, which will improve the survival rate of myrtle;
• The new pot is filled with expanded clay. We should not forget about drainage;
• Then the substrate is prepared. By the way, both during the initial planting and subsequently, the best substrate option is peat and turf soil (30% each), as well as humus and river or sifted sand (20% each);
• The finished substrate is poured onto the bottom of the pot;
• The plant is installed in a new pot, covered with substrate, leveled;
• After replanting, water the myrtle thoroughly until water seeps out of the drainage hole;

After all stages, the tree is transferred to a shaded place.

Myrtle propagation

There are two ways to propagate myrtle:

• Cuttings;
• Seeds.

Propagation by cuttings will occur if the soil temperature reaches 25 degrees. This is an extremely important condition.

Propagation is carried out using apical cuttings.

• A cutting that has reached a length of 7-9 cm must be cut from a side shoot. You can also use a shorter cutting (5-7 cm), but in this case it is necessary to cut it from the main, but not flowering, shoot. The lower leaves must be removed, and the formed cut must be processed using Kornevin.
• The next step is planting cuttings. A mixture of sand and peat is ideal for this purpose. The cuttings are placed in this mixture and covered with a loose film on top. The rooting process occurs at room temperature. The result appears after approximately 2-3 weeks.

Another propagation option is using seeds. This method has a significant drawback: the seeds take a long time to germinate. But many are already familiar with such difficulties and may try to grow myrtle this way. To propagate by seeds, you need to prepare a substrate consisting of peat and sand. It is also recommended to sprinkle the mixture with a little soil. The substrate and soil on top are covered with plastic film.

For successful germination, it is important to meet two conditions:

• Provide diffused light;
• Monitor the temperature, which should be maintained at 21 degrees.

It is equally important to form a crown with this method of reproduction:

You need to pinch the sprout at a certain height. Flowering of young plants should be expected in the second or third year.

Those who want to get myrtle flowers should know that to do this they should not prune the plant in the spring. In general, it is better to postpone pruning until flowering has ended.

The flowering period is the beginning and middle of summer, June-July. In order for the flowers to turn out beautiful, two rules must be observed:

• Provide proper care for the tree;
• Provide constant access to fresh air for the plant.

Inadequate care will lead to the development of diseases, and in this case there will be no need to talk about flowering. Flowering is also not observed when myrtle is kept indoors, where the air is predominantly stagnant.

The flowers themselves on the tree in question are arranged like this:

• Or singly in leaf axils;
• Or being collected in brushes.

There are usually 4-6 petals, but the flowers themselves are simple and double. The main part of the flowers is located in the upper part of the plant, since that is where the best illumination is.

Diseases and pests of myrtle, methods of combating them

To begin with, we note that myrtle does not have any special diseases or serious problems. But individual ailments can still sometimes occur.

For example, in poorly drained soil, a tree may develop root rot. Some problems may arise due to non-compliance with key care rules: insufficient lighting, poor watering. It is important to always take into account the fact that myrtle is a very fastidious plant, and therefore each condition for its care must be observed as precisely as possible.

Also, the tree is often attacked by insects: these can be thrips, scale insects, spider mites, and aphids. For this reason, you need to carefully monitor the condition of the plant and, if there are any negative signs, carefully inspect it for the presence of insects. This requirement is especially relevant in relation to old plants.

If pests are still found, then it is necessary to purchase the appropriate drug to combat them. This product must be used in strict accordance with the instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions on Growing Myrtle

Those who grow myrtle often have certain questions. We will look at the most common of them, and also try to give extremely detailed answers.

• Myrtle not growing?

The lack of tree growth can be associated with various factors. Here you need to, firstly, take into account that myrtle, in principle, does not grow too quickly. In addition, one should not expect active growth from it in the very first stages of development. For the rest, try to provide high-quality care and feed the plant well.

• Myrtle not blooming?

The tree will not bloom in several cases. So, if you pruned the plant in the spring, then you should forget about flowering this year. There will be no flowers even when the myrtle is kept in a poorly ventilated room.

• Are myrtle leaves withering?

In winter, myrtle may be left without leaves if its temperature is too high for a dormant period. A similar picture can be observed if the basic rules relating to watering the plant, spraying it and feeding it are not followed. Thus, the leaves of a tree can wilt when water stagnates in the pan. Or, on the contrary, it can happen if the soil dries out excessively between waterings. Among other things, the cause of leaf wilting can be excess sunlight. Therefore, when the first signs of myrtle wilting are detected, it is important to move it to a place protected from exposure to sunlight, adjust watering and start spraying more often.

• Is it poisonous?

Myrtle leaves are slightly poisonous. Long-term exposure to substances contained in the leaves can cause nausea and headaches in the most sensitive people.

Video on caring for myrtle at home

Thus, when caring for myrtle, it is important to understand that this plant does not accept any deviations from the key rules of caring for it. We must not forget about the frequency and abundance of watering, spraying, and fertilizing. It is necessary to provide the plant with a flow of fresh air. Finally, it needs to be replanted periodically. If you follow all the advice and take into account all the nuances, you will be able to fully enjoy the beauty of this unusual tree.

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Mythology

In ancient times, myrtle was an attribute of the goddess Venus and her three maids - the three graces. During the Renaissance, the evergreen myrtle began to symbolize eternal love, especially marital fidelity.

During the Renaissance, the evergreen myrtle began to symbolize eternal love, especially marital fidelity.

The word “myrtle” itself is of Greek origin. Legend has it that the nymph Myrsina, whom Athena herself admired and admired, defeated this supreme goddess of Olympus in a running competition. Envy overshadowed her admiration for her favorite, and Athena killed the nymph in revenge for her hurt pride. But having come to her senses, she was horrified and began to pray to the council of the Olympian gods so that they would leave her at least some memory of Mirsin. The gods took pity, and from the body of the deceased, an elegant plant, like the nymph herself, grew - myrtle. According to legend, Aphrodite was crowned with a wreath of myrtle during the famous dispute, thanks to which Paris gave her his apple. Since then, myrtle has become the favorite flower of the goddess of love and beauty, sometimes she even called herself Myrthea. Many myrtle bushes were planted around the temples of Aphrodite, and during the annual festivals in honor of this goddess, everyone was decorated with myrtle wreaths.

Peculiarities

Bloom: usually in summer and until mid-autumn.

Height: Myrtle grows quite slowly: annual growth is 10-15 cm.

Light: bright diffused; The plant can tolerate some amount of sunlight.

Temperature: in spring and summer moderate or slightly below moderate, 18-20°C; During the winter months, the myrtle tree is best kept at a temperature of 5°C and not higher than 8-10°C.

Watering: from spring to autumn it is regular and abundant (as the top layer of the substrate dries), in winter it is limited.

Air humidity: From spring to autumn the plant is sprayed.

Feeding: From spring to autumn, myrtle is fertilized weekly with flower fertilizer.

Trimming: Plants can withstand pruning and trimming, so they can be given any shape.

Rest period: in winter; The plant is kept in a bright, cool (5-10°C) place with limited watering.

Transfer: young plants are replanted every year in the spring, without burying the base of the trunk into the soil; later replanting is carried out if necessary after 2-3 years.

Reproduction: The plant propagates by seeds and cuttings.

Care

Myrtle loves bright, diffused light and tolerates some direct sunlight. Suitable for growing near western and eastern windows. At south-facing windows in the summer, it is necessary to provide the plant with protection from the midday sun. It can grow in a north window, but flowering will be less abundant. In winter, myrtle is placed in the most illuminated places.

In summer, myrtle can be placed outdoors, in a place where protection from direct midday sun is provided. The plant should be accustomed to the new level of illumination gradually. Some gardeners bury a pot of myrtle directly into the ground to harden the plant for the summer.

Myrtle loves cool weather; in spring and summer it needs moderate or slightly below moderate temperatures (18-20°C). During the winter months, the myrtle tree is best kept at a temperature of 5°C and not higher than 8-10°C. At higher than optimal winter temperatures, the plant may lose its leaves.

Myrtle needs an influx of fresh air.

Myrtle is watered regularly and abundantly from spring to autumn (as the top layer of the substrate dries), in winter - limitedly, with soft, settled water. Under no circumstances should the soil be allowed to dry out even briefly. If the substrate is nevertheless dry, watering is used by immersing the pot in a container of water. At the same time, you need to make sure that the water does not stagnate in the pan.

You should carefully monitor air humidity. Although in the natural conditions of myrtle growth the air humidity rarely exceeds 60%, in rooms with central heating it is usually half that. From spring to autumn, the plant should be sprayed regularly. For spraying, you should use only soft, settled or filtered water. In winter, when kept cool, the plant is not sprayed.

From spring to autumn, myrtle is fertilized, as already noted, weekly with flower fertilizer.

Myrtle has a pronounced dormant period. Depending on the position in the room, myrtle is at rest from 3 (on the north window) to 1.5 (on the south) months.

Myrtle easily tolerates cutting, and it can be given a very fancy shape. Several ways of forming a plant are given: “If myrtle (that’s what myrtle was called in Russia at the beginning of the 20th century) is left to itself, then the plant will take the shape of a pyramid. If you cut off the top shoot, it takes the shape of a bush; if, finally, you cut off the side shoots, then the myrtle takes the shape of a crowned tree and branches at the top.” However, the author does not advise getting too carried away with pruning side shoots, especially in young plants, since the myrtle stem is not strong enough. Also, you should not pinch young shoots too often - this reduces the intensity of flowering. Therefore, when caring for myrtle, you need to decide what is preferable - highly branching compact bushes or beautifully flowering specimens with a loose crown.

Young plants are replanted every year in the spring, without burying the base of the trunk into the soil; subsequently, replanting is carried out if necessary after 2-3 years. The following mixtures are recommended as a substrate: 1) turf-humus-peat soil and sand in equal parts; 2) ordinary greenhouse soil; 3) clay-turf-peat-humus soil and sand (1:1:1:0.5). The pH of the substrate should be around 5-6. The bottom of the pot provides a good layer of drainage.

Reproduction

Myrtle is propagated by seeds and cuttings.

Myrtle propagation by seeds

For sowing, we make a mixture of peat and sand in a 1:1 ratio (you can mix peat with vermiculite (1:1)). The substrate is moistened (the substrate can be shed with a fungicide).

The seeds are distributed over the surface of the substrate and sprinkled with a thin layer of substrate on top. The container with the seeds is covered with glass or a transparent bag (or cling film). The temperature is maintained at least +18-20°C. Ventilate periodically by removing the cover. The substrate must be kept moist; try not to over-moisten or over-dry.

Typically, seedlings germinate in 7-14 days. When the seedlings grow two true leaves, they are planted in pots of the appropriate size. The substrate is made up of turf soil - 1 part, humus - 1 part, peat soil - 1 part and sand - 1 part. After transshipment, seedlings may freeze in growth for some time; after a while they usually begin to grow again.

After entwining a clod of earth with roots, transshipment is done. Further care is the same as for adult plants.
Myrtle grown from seeds blooms in the 5th year of life.

Propagation by cuttings

Myrtle is propagated by semi-lignified cuttings in January-February and in July in summer. Cuttings are taken from the lower and middle parts of the crown, cutting size is 5-8 cm; To reduce evaporation, half of the existing leaves are cut off and the remaining ones are shortened. It is useful to treat the cut with growth stimulants. N. Tsybulya and co-authors recommend using heteroauxin in a mixture with ascorbic acid (0.25% 0). Root in boxes, bowls, wide low pots in a mixture of leaf soil and coarse sand, or sphagnum and sand in a cool (16-20°C) shaded place. The cuttings are watered, sprayed and covered with glass or plastic film. Occasionally the soil is ventilated to avoid rotting of the cuttings and souring of the soil. Cuttings take root within 20-30 days. Rooted cuttings are planted in 7-centimeter pots. The substrate is made up of turf soil - 1 part, humus - 1 part, peat soil - 1 part and sand - 1 part. Water generously. Young plants are pinched to stimulate flowering. After entwining a clod of earth with roots, transshipment occurs. A plant from cuttings blooms in 3-4 years.

Kinds

To the family Myrtle (Myrtus) belongs to 16 to 40 species of the Myrtaceae family. Species of the genus Myrtle are widespread in North Africa, Western Asia, the islands of the Caribbean, Florida (USA), the Azores, and Europe (Mediterranean region).

One species is widely known in culture - Common myrtle M. communis.

Common myrtle (Myrtus communis). It grows in the undergrowth of evergreen oaks and pines and in bushes in the Mediterranean region, the Azores, and North Africa. Trees or shrubs up to 3-4 m tall; shoots are 4-sided, finely hairy, rounded, glabrous. The leaves are opposite, sometimes collected in groups of 3, ovate, lanceolate, 2-4 (to 5) cm long and 1-2 cm wide, pointed, leathery, entire, smooth, glabrous, glossy. If you look at a myrtle leaf in the light, you can see small dots filled with essential oil, thanks to which the plant emits a pleasant aroma. The white flowers of the plant are the most fragrant. They are small (up to 2 cm in diameter), five-petaled, located one at a time on long stalks. Numerous golden stamens give them a special uniqueness.
In nature, myrtle reaches a height of 3-5 m. In cultivation, the plant is low (about 60 cm), rarely reaching 1 m.

Common myrtle has many cultural forms, differing in leaf position and flowering ability.

Possible difficulties

If there is not enough light, the stems stretch, the leaves become smaller and turn pale, but if there is too much light, they become dull, turn yellow, and the edges curl. In a dark room with high temperature, the plant sheds its leaves.

The plant suffers greatly due to overdrying and overwatering of the substrate. If the plant has dropped its leaves due to dryness or waterlogging, the shoots should be cut to half and continue watering (in case of waterlogging, watering very carefully) and spraying. After two weeks, young leaves may appear.

If the placement is too warm and dark, leaves may fall off. If suddenly the leaves of the myrtle begin to fall off, then the problem is due to improper watering: it is either insufficient or excessive. In this case, it is recommended to immerse the overdried plant in water and replant the over-watered one. However, most often the plant cannot be saved.

Pests primarily attack old specimens. This is also facilitated by too high air temperatures in winter.

www.botanichka.ru

An evergreen shrub, a plant of travelers and a symbol of a happy fate - myrtle - a welcome guest on summer cottage and at home. In today's article you will learn how to make myrtle bloom at home, the reasons why myrtle does not bloom and how to correct care without undesirable consequences for the plant.

Why doesn't myrtle bloom at home?

The myrtle tree came to our homes from the southern regions, where there is no end to the abundance of sunshine, fresh air and humid climate. There are several mistakes in care due to which myrtle does not bloom at home. Let's look at them in detail to then find a solution, how to make myrtle bloom at home.

Problems with the lack of flowering of myrtle, as we found out, are mainly based on improper care or unsuitable growing conditions. What to do to make myrtle bloom at home? You just need to correct what is not suitable for maintaining the myrtle tree and enjoy the results.

• We return bright lighting to myrtle at home and extend daylight hours. On hot summer days we shade from direct sunlight, and the rest of the time we increase the volume of lighting.
• We spend a period of rest, stopping watering and lowering the air temperature to 8-10° C. The plant should be brought to a room temperature of 20-23° C during the day and 18° C at night.
• The soil mixture for planting myrtle should consist of: peat, humus, turf soil, sand. Regularly feed with mineral fertilizers.
• A lack of phosphorus and potassium, as well as an excess of nitrogen, lead to a suspension of flowering. It is necessary to adjust the volume of fertilizers applied.
• Myrtle should be watered frequently, without over-wetting the soil mixture. Drain off excess water, dry the soil in the pot at home, then repeat moistening.
• Prune myrtle for flowering and crown formation every year. You can also give it a decorative shape at your discretion.

Pinching or how to make myrtle bloom at home

• Shchitovka;
• Spider mite;

Correct care - maintaining air humidity and temperature, regular watering, removing old shoots, inspection– allow you to protect the plant from unexpected diseases. The ancient flower culture itself is happy to decorate the windowsill at home, giving the gardener essential oils from the leaves, decoctions and infusions that strengthen the immune system. Myrtle is also useful indirectly - it fills the house with love and peace, and the owner with happiness and luck. Especially popular among women.

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Caring for myrtle at home

Watering

Homemade myrtle is unpretentious in care. It will take up little space and growing will not be difficult. Ensure timely watering and spraying. The plant loves moisture very much. During the period of active growth - spring and summer - the soil should be constantly moist. During this period, it is also advisable to spray the myrtle foliage daily. Sometimes you can take a warm shower. Use softened, settled water for watering and spraying. Reduce watering when temperatures drop. Under no circumstances allow the earthen clod to dry out; if this happens, the myrtle begins to dry out and fall off.

Excessive watering is another destructive extreme, fraught with rotting of the roots. Avoid stagnation of water in the tray 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 if all other rules of care are provided, it will not bloom. Myrtle is not afraid of drafts. On the contrary, air currents will better distribute favorable phytoncides.

Temperature

The plant will do well in cool rooms. A moderate or slightly below moderate air temperature (within 18-23°C) is suitable. To get abundant flowering, provide cool air temperatures in winter between 6-8°C. If this is not possible, you can winter in a warmer room, but with more frequent watering and spraying.

Why does myrtle shed its leaves?

In winter, when heating systems are operating, the air becomes warm and dry - this can cause myrtle leaves to fall off. Don’t despair; continue to water the plant moderately and by spring it will green up again. A myrtle that has had a warm winter will most likely not bloom. In summer, myrtle can be taken out into the open air.

Feeding

For successful growth and good development, indoor myrtle needs to be fed. Apply organic mineral fertilizers once every two weeks. No fertilizing is needed during wintering.

How to trim and shape the crown of myrtle

Common myrtle is usually grown indoors. It tolerates pruning well. Even if the myrtle does not bloom, the formation of the crown will allow you to grow a beautiful bonsai-type tree. Do not expose the trunk too much, because it is not very strong. Leave as many side shoots as possible. However, if you want the tree to bloom, you should not get carried away with pruning, otherwise flower buds will not form.

Trimming myrtle on video:

Transfer

Home myrtle can grow for a very long time; it does not need to be renewed every few years, like many other plants, but it still needs to be replanted. This is done before active growth begins - 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: turf soil + humus soil + peat + sand, mix in proportions 2:1:1:1. Be sure to place drainage at the bottom of the pot.

Growing myrtle from seeds

Reproduction by seeds and cuttings is possible. During seed propagation, varietal characteristics may be lost if the seeds are taken from hybrid bushes. Only fresh seeds germinate well. Wash the seeds without pericarp in a weak solution of potassium permanganate and dry.

Plant in pots using light soil. The seeding depth is 0.5 cm. Cover with film or glass to create a greenhouse effect. Place in a warm, lit place, avoiding direct sunlight.

Ventilate the seedlings regularly, moisten the soil, but do not flood it. Expect shoots to emerge in 1.5-2 months; once they appear, the film must be removed. When the seedlings grow up, they are planted in separate pots. When reaching a height of 15-20 cm, you need to pinch out young shoots, stimulating the growth of new ones. Myrtle grown from seeds will bloom by the 5th year of life.

Propagation of myrtle by cuttings

It is easier to grow myrtle from stem cuttings. They take root very well.

• Take cuttings in early summer from the top non-flowering shoots.
• The cuttings 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 left for about 2 hours, then rinsed with clean water.
• Plant the cuttings in a damp sand-peat mixture, deepen it into three nodes at an angle of 45-50°.
• Cover the top with film or a cut-out transparent plastic bottle and place in a warm, shady place.
• Ventilate the seedlings. New shoots will appear in about a month.
• Then the shelter needs to be removed and placed in a bright place.

In the future, care for it as you would for an adult plant. This myrtle should bloom in 2-3 years.

Video about cutting myrtle:

Diseases and pests of myrtle

Myrtle diseases occur due to improper watering. It is important to constantly keep the soil moist, but to avoid stagnation of water in the flowerpot and tray itself. Excessive watering can trigger 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 restore the plant. Also during this period, spider mites can attack. You recognize their appearance by the presence of cobwebs. The leaves, especially on the underside, need to be washed with water or a weak tobacco solution, sprayed with ground sulfur or insecticides applied (spray in the open air).

When scale insects appear on a plant, it may 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 the pests mechanically. Then treat with an insecticide or, more gently, with a soap solution to completely destroy the larvae.

If the leaves dry out and curl, most likely there are aphids - small green, black or gray insects located on the bottom of the leaf. They reproduce very quickly. Immediately treat with special preparations that are sold in flower shops.

Types and varieties of myrtle

Common 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 indoor conditions. The leaves are small, glossy, leathery, oblong, arranged oppositely.

Variegata 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-snow-white in color with golden stamens, and exude a pleasant aroma. Suitable for growing indoors. This species is revered as a symbol of fertility.

Myrtle Hymen variety - the name was received in honor of the God of Marriage, 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, and about 1 meter in a room. The leaves are miniature, lanceolate, emerald in color. The flowers are snow-white with a large number of golden stamens, 1.5-2 cm in diameter. At the end of flowering, blue-black berries are formed that have an intense, pleasant aroma.

Bigleaf Myrtle Myrtus macrophylla

It has a powerful antibacterial effect, eliminating pathogenic bacteria and rods. Helps in the fight against flu, sore throat, sinusitis; in the prevention of treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, prostatitis.

The plant reaches a height of 3-4 m. The 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

An excellent ornamental plant, suitable for growing in wild and domestic conditions. The leaves are compacted, with a high content of essential oils. The flowers are small, white, fragrant. They bloom in late spring. After flowering, white, fragrant fruits are formed.

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 serrated, pointed, colored emerald, attached to shortened petioles. The plant has a fast growth rate. In nature it grows about 5 m tall, in indoor conditions - up to 1 meter.

Lemon Myrtle Myrtus lemon

Exudes a pleasant lemon aroma. Originally from the tropics of Australia. Widely used in cooking. It is used to make essential oil, various sauces, dressings, syrups and lemon drinks. Dry leaves are used as 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 that completely cover the crown of the tree. Along with abundant flowering, the myrtle tree turns into a festive decoration for any room.

How to prepare a tincture of myrtle leaves?

It's quite easy to do this yourself. Take a liter jar, put about 100 g of leaves in it and fill 500 g with 60-70% alcohol or vodka. For two weeks you need to infuse the mixture in a dark place. It is advisable to shake the jar daily. Then filter the infusion. To prevent diseases, you need to take 20 drops of infusion 30 minutes before meals 3 times a day.

You can benefit from the plant simply by placing it in the room: it will purify the air from various viruses and microbes. It is not recommended to place myrtle in the bedroom. You will surely love the aroma exuded by the tree. Myrtle is ideal for both home and office.

Myrtle is a symbol of a strong, prosperous, friendly family. It will be an excellent gift for newlyweds and established families.

Legends, beliefs about myrtle, its medicinal and other beneficial properties

An ancient legend says that Adam brought myrtle from Paradise. The ancient Greeks considered myrtle sacred. Myrtle was also revered by the Romans, Egyptians, and Jews. Myrtle was credited with the ability to restore youth to aging facial skin, and it gave strength and vigor to travelers. For Catholics, myrtle is the personification of the spirit of the Virgin Mary, therefore the peoples of Northern Europe consider it a talisman for women. With the birth of her daughter, a myrtle tree was grown, and at her wedding, myrtle branches were used to decorate the veil, the bride’s outfit, and the wedding bouquet. That is why myrtle is sometimes called the bride tree.

Myrtle means "balm" in 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 mood.

Myrtle essential oil is widely used in medicine and perfumery. Wipe your face with myrtle tincture, which refreshes the skin better than any lotion. Myrtle tincture or a decoction of bark and leaves is used in the treatment of diseases of the throat and respiratory tract, diseases of the genitourinary system and gastrointestinal tract, and treats various suppurations and poorly healing wounds.

In ancient times, myrtle fruits were infused into wine, considering it a good tonic, a real elixir of health.

Be careful with folk remedies, be sure to consult a doctor. Myrtle treatment should be used with caution by elderly people and pregnant women.

Dried fruits and leaves are used as a spice. When baking, smoking, grilling meat or fish, adding a sprig of myrtle will give them a special aroma. Remove leaves after cooking. By the way, the spice clove is a product of one of the types of myrtle tree.