Deadly myrtle. Myrtle flower: photo of a houseplant and care for it. Myrtle tree propagation

Myrtle is one of the most favorite indoor plants of the florist. This is not surprising, because the myrtle tree is incredibly beautiful and useful. In addition, it has a rich history of origin and very beautiful symbolism. There are many legends and beliefs associated with this deciduous beauty.

Myrtle is a plant from the genus of evergreen shrubs and trees. It belongs to the myrtle family and originates in Ancient Greece. For many centuries, this tree has been considered a symbol of beauty and youth, and it also symbolizes happiness and well-being in the family. The myrtle plant has been formed as a decorative flower for 400 years. In indoor conditions, the flower can reach 1 m in height, in natural conditions it grows upward by 3-4 m.

Tree bush leaves

The woody shrub has straight stems that branch rather densely. The leaves of this handsome man are dark green, dense, leathery. The shape of the myrtle leaf is oblong, slightly sharpened to the edge. On the stems, the leaves grow very abundantly and are kept on small petioles. The length of one leaf reaches from 2 to 5 cm. Leaves can have different shapes depending on the type of plant, for example, myrtle hakven has wrinkled edges on the foliage.

Myrtle leaves are shiny and have a pleasant scent. The thing is that the leaves contain small glands that can be seen up close in good lighting. It is thanks to these glands that the leaf of the plant releases essential oils and aromatic substances. Myrtle essential oil helps to relieve fatigue, soothes well and cures insomnia. However, you should be careful with the myrtle scent; excessive amounts of it can cause nausea and dizziness.

Houseplant flowering

Myrtle flowers grow singly in the leaf axils, or the flowering is collected in whole brushes. Blossoming is mostly white, sometimes pink shades of flowers are found. The flowers themselves are small, very fragrant and fragrant. The flowering of indoor myrtle is pollinated with a brush. The tree blooms in early summer and bears fruit in autumn. The fruits of this plant contain a spice, they are edible and juicy, dark blue or deep red in appearance.

Popular types of myrtle

Today there are about a hundred different types of myrtle. This fragrant, leafy beauty is represented by a wealth of its species all over the world, but the most common is the common myrtle, or, as it is also called, communis. And this is not surprising, because flower growers consider the common myrtle plant to be the most unpretentious flower from the myrtle family. The characteristic features of this tree are five-petal flowers with golden stamens in the center, as well as a highly branched trunk, rather short.

Such species as small-leaved myrtle, lush myrtle, Ralph's myrtle, and hakven myrtle are very popular. Also included in the description of the plant is myrtle species such as Tarentina Granada, a dwarf flower that gives its owners a beautiful lush flowering. All these species differ in the shape of the leaves and branches, as well as in the color of the fruit, but they are all incredibly beautiful and unique.

The healing and beneficial qualities of the myrtle plant

It is not in vain that the characteristic of myrtle has such an interesting moment: the word “myrtle” is translated from the Greek language as “balm”.

It can take a very long time to list how myrtle is useful and how it is valued in medicine. This southern plant has a huge storehouse of medicinal properties. Today, everyone who cares about their health is interested in the topic - the myrtle plant: its properties and application, because this small indoor dweller is very rich in useful qualities.

The flower is able to purify the air in the apartment, protect the inhabitants of the house from bacteria and annoying viruses, for example, from ARVI disease, from tuberculosis and diphtheria bacillus. The antibacterial properties of myrtle plants are widely known, as well as the fact that the flower contributes to the anti-inflammatory processes of the body.

Various tinctures are made from the tree, which help with intestinal diseases, help in the fight against cancerous tumors, help to cope with heart diseases, have healing effects in sinusitis, diabetes, liver and kidney diseases. Interestingly, myrtle is also used for various allergic symptoms.

The essential oil, which is contained in the foliage, bark and flowers of the tree, perfectly tones and soothes. This oil is widely used for cosmetic purposes, because it heals the skin from acne, gives it freshness, and strengthens the hair. Also, myrtle oil invigorates and improves mood. And the beneficial properties of the myrtle plant do not end there. This evergreen flower softens the cough of a heavy smoker and boosts immunity.

Proper care of myrtle at home

Many amateur flower growers are wondering how to care for myrtle so that it grows healthy and strong. Any indoor flower needs careful and attentive care, because it needs to feel cared for. If caring for a myrtle plant at home was complete, then this handsome indoor man will certainly delight the grower with his magnificent growth. To do this, you need to follow a few simple tips.

Place and lighting for the flower

Myrtle loves sunshine, but sunshine should be in moderation, especially on hot summer days. Do not keep the myrtle flowerpot in the heat. It is best to place the flower in a well-lit area, or on a windowsill. It will be great if the tree is on the west or east side. In summer, caring for a myrtle plant requires less effort, you just need to take it out into fresh air, for example, on a balcony. In winter, you need to provide the flower with good lighting.

Temperature and humidity

A favorable atmosphere for a myrtle flower: how to care, what temperature to keep, how to refresh it and not dry it out? All this is simple enough. The myrtle tree grows well at moderate air temperatures, in winter it will feel good at temperatures up to eight degrees below zero. If you provide myrtle with coolness in winter, then in summer this handsome man will bloom thickly and profusely. In the summer season, you just need to keep the flower in the fresh air, but protect it from the sultry heat.

The air humidity of this evergreen tree requires high and copes very poorly with dry indoor air. The plant needs constant spraying in summer, as well as in spring and warm autumn, when it grows intensively and gets stronger. When cold weather sets in, you do not need to spray it.

Soil, fertilization, and watering

The soil in the myrtle flowerpot should remain sufficiently moist. The flowerpot is recommended to contain equal amounts of sand, humus, peat soil and turf soil. You can also make the soil from clay, humus, peat and turf soil in equal amounts and add sand. The indoor tree should be watered regularly, but in moderation, you should not flood the flowerpot too much. Warm water is used for irrigation.

How much fertilization does a houseplant myrtle require: growing and care during feeding, are there any peculiarities? The fact is that feeding depends on what result is expected by the grower. If you need to achieve good flowering, you can, for example, use fertilizer with phosphorus, and fertilizing with nitrogen is suitable for growing a small decorative tree. Whatever the choice of a grower, the main thing is not to forget to feed the myrtle flower once a week.

Transplanting a tree shrub

A tree shrub should be transplanted as needed, this must be done carefully and carefully.

With this responsible procedure, it is necessary to ensure that the trunk does not sink into the ground along with the roots; it is recommended to leave it on the surface of the flowerpot. While the deciduous handsome man is young, you can transplant it once a year, but try not to overdo it, because very large flowerpots will not benefit the tree. Also, remember that the flower is transplanted in the spring before it starts flowering.

Pruning as well as pinching

Myrtle needs pruning in order to get a beautiful shape. This leafy flower will delight the eye anyway, but when trimmed to the desired look, it will look unique. If you trim the top of the flower, it will decorate the interior of the room in the form of a shrub, but if you trim the side parts, the myrtle will stretch upward like a slender tree. Here it is recommended to remember the following: a woody plant is cut off when the trunk is already strong, and this procedure is necessarily carried out in the spring.

You can pinch the deciduous beauty as needed in order to increase the density of the crowns. Myrtle will become fuller and healthier after pinching, however, it is not recommended to do this too often, as the tree may lose its bloom density. Experienced flower growers know that procedures of this kind should be carried out in moderation, taking into account all the subtleties of the question common myrtle: home care, because each plant loves an individual approach.

Myrtle tree propagation

In nature, there are two ways to propagate myrtle: from seeds and using cuttings. Both methods require a lot of attention and respect. The florist carries out propagation by cuttings 2 times a year, for this it is necessary to remove them from the myrtle and plant them for rooting in peat with sand. The cuttings are covered with a bag to retain moisture, and after a month, when the roots grow, they can be planted in a small flowerpot. This myrtle blooms for the third year of its growth.

For seeds, it is necessary to prepare a soil of peat and sand, distribute them evenly on the surface, sprinkle on top with a thin layer of earth and cover with foil. It is recommended to put this soil in a well-lit place and water it regularly. After about 2 weeks, when the seedlings have two leaves each, they can be transplanted into small flowerpots. This myrtle will begin to bloom in the fifth year of life.

What threatens myrtle?

Is myrtle healthy: diseases and treatment, what to fear and how to properly protect a woody plant? Florists definitely need to know what myrtle diseases are in order to prevent their occurrence. The most common attack is aphids, a very unpleasant spider mite, and also a scale insect. These, as well as similar pests of myrtle, can manifest themselves if the flower is not provided with good lighting and proper watering is not observed. Treatment is carried out with insecticides, it is also recommended to spray the myrtle handsome man with water, paying special attention to the underside of the foliage.

Every florist who boasts a gorgeous myrtle plant in his collection is incredibly proud of this, because this flower carries many useful nuances. You can talk forever about the symbolism, history and beauty of this leafy pet, but it's better to just enjoy its view in your home! A lot of useful information in the article:

Myrtle is a pretty, scented tree that can be grown at home along with other houseplants. Caring for this tree is not entirely easy, but also not as difficult as it might seem.

The myrtle tree, the photo of which you can see in the article, attracts with its unusual appearance and pleasant aroma. It will be discussed below.

Description of the myrtle tree

A houseplant such as myrtle looks great both as an independent flower and in composition with other home flowers. It is believed that myrtle has a beneficial effect on the nervous system.... This flower at home fulfills not only an aesthetic function, because its leaves and cuttings can be used as seasonings for various dishes.

In many countries, the myrtle tree is considered the embodiment of moral purity, love and loyalty. These traditions known since biblical times and are still relevant... For example, in some cultures, a flower of peace given at a wedding is considered a symbol of good marriage and well-being.

Under natural conditions, the myrtle flower grows in the Mediterranean in a subtropical climate. In the photo you can see what this plant looks like:

• the leaves are small and shiny, have an elongated shape;
• flowers of white and pink color contain essential oils;
• myrtle fruits are nuts or dark blue drupes.

Plant application

The attractiveness of the plant made it a welcome guest as a room color that fits into any style of kitchen or room. but aesthetic side - far from the only purpose of myrtle.

Also, myrtle is applied as follows:

Famous varieties of myrtle

The plant has a huge number of species and varieties, which differ from each other in the following parameters:

• color;
• the shape of the leaves;
• fruit color;
• the height of the tree.

The most attractive varieties are:

• Flore Pleno, with double flowers;
• Tarentina Variegata;
• Variegata;
• Microfilla Tarentina, distinguished by its small size;
• La Clape;
• La Clape Blanc.

However, despite the large number of varieties of this flower, common myrtle remains the most popular as a houseplant, the intricacies of caring for which will be discussed below.

Myrtle: home care

You can see photos of these home-grown plants both in the article and on the Internet. And so that they have such an attractive appearance, you need to follow the rules of care behind them in room conditions.

Remember that myrtle is a subtropical plant, therefore, it needs high humidity, which can be provided by regular spraying. For watering and spraying myrtle, settled soft water is used. It is not necessary to specially soften it for these purposes, but the lime in the soil of the flower can harm it.

The composition of the soil should preferably be close to natural. The proportions of the substrate for myrtle should be something like this:

• 30 percent turf;
• 30 percent peat soil;
• 20 percent river or sifted sand;
• 20 percent humus.

You can use greenhouse soil or ready-made soil mix.

Even a short-term drying out of the soil is dangerous for the world, the plant can turn yellow and wither. When the soil dries up, the flower in the pot is immersed in water. but there should be no stagnation of water in the flower container either.

To feed the plant, use special complex formulations for flowering indoor plants.

Myrtle loves to be outdoors, and he is not afraid of drafts. therefore at home it can be kept in places such as a kitchen window sill or balcony... Thus, phytoncides that improve the atmosphere of the room will be released even more actively.

The optimal place for myrtle indoors is a south-lit window. You can keep the plant in another place, but it will be comfortable to bloom here.

The peculiarities of caring for myrtle also depend on the season. We'll talk about this in more detail below.

Features of summer plant care

At home, from spring to autumn, inclusive, myrtle needs moderate temperature conditions, the optimal indicator is about 23 degrees... It is better to keep the plant in a lighted place, but at the same time it needs to be shaded from the heat using curtains or special screens.

If possible, transfer the world to a balcony or veranda where there is more air. If he stays for the summer in room conditions, the room needs to be ventilated regularly.

Watering during the warm season should be regular, but not plentiful. You need to feed the plant once a week. In the spring, the myrtle is pruned and transplanted. The transplant should be performed a maximum of once every two years.

Winter care for myrtle

Winter for this flower is a dormant period. Watering should be moderate, but the soil should not be overdried. One watering per week will be sufficient. Spray the plant only needed when it is located in a warm room. Top dressing is carried out every 4–5 weeks.

For the winter, the world needs to be moved to a bright and cool place and kept at a temperature of about 10 degrees. If the flower will shed its leaves, so he is hot. Do not be sad if it loses a lot of leaves, because in the spring it will again restore its splendor.

How to prune myrtle

The plant treats this procedure well, so it is advisable to give the desired shape to its crown. It is advisable to leave side shoots at the same time, since the barrel is not very strong... However, pruning and pinching is not always beneficial in bud formation.

During pruning, the myrtle is fed with chlorine-free fertilizer for indoor plants.

Features of the reproduction of myrtle

Myrtle is propagated by seeds and cuttings. To preserve the maternal traits of the plant, it is best to do this using cuttings. At the same time, the soil must have a temperature of at least 25 degrees... Cuttings are carried out in winter or in the middle of summer as follows:

• cut the stalk up to 9 cm long from the side shoot;
• remove the lower leaves, and treat the cut with Kornevin;
• we plant the cuttings in sandy peat soil;
• cover with glass or film on top;
• leave to take root for 2-3 weeks;
• we plant the cuttings in separate pots.

The second way of plant propagation, seed, has a key flaw - varietal characteristics cannot be preserved in their original form. It also takes a long time to grow.

Sowing seeds is carried out in early spring. They are planted in a sandy peat substrate, then covered with soil. Then r cover with glass or foil, and in the room they make diffused lighting and a temperature of about 21 degrees.

After a couple of weeks, the first shoots appear. Myrtles are planted in separate containers when at least 4 leaves appear.

When growing a plant from seeds, a crown must be formed, therefore, the sprout must be pinched at the desired height.

How to transplant a myrtle tree?

Myrtle does not grow too quickly, so it is often not necessary to transplant it. However, if necessary, this should be done when it becomes cramped in the pot. A transplant is recommended no more than once every three years.... This is best done in winter.

To make it easier to remove the plant from the container, do not water it for several days. Then the tree is carefully removed, holding it by the trunk.

In order for the roots to take root better, they are treated with a stimulant. Pour the substrate into a pot with drainage and expanded clay, then lay the myrtle, then pour out the soil and level its surface. Water it until water enters the container.... Then the plant is transferred to a darkened place.

Flowering period

Myrtle blooms from early to mid-summer. Its flowers can be simple or double, be in the axils of the leaves separately, or be collected in a brush. Basically, they bloom in the upper most illuminated part.

For flowering to be successful, follow these care rules:

• do not prune myrtle in early spring, it is better to do this after flowering;
• provide regular airing for the flower.

Diseases and pests

If the soil under the myrtle is poorly drained, then this can provoke the appearance of root rot... Also, with improper care, the plant is exposed to many diseases.

Pests dangerous for myrtle are:

• spider mite;
• thrips;
• shield;
• whitefly.

Inspect the plant regularly for strange rashes or other manifestations. If you find traces of pests, treat the plant with special products.

It is also worth remembering that myrtle leaves contain toxic components that, if a person has sensitivity, can cause headaches and nausea.

Improper flower care can provoke lethargy and yellowing of the leaves. Make sure that the soil does not dry out, lighting and temperature were always normal, do not let everything take its course. Monitor the frequency of watering and repot the plant on time if necessary.

The rules for caring for myrtle at home are not so complicated. And if you stick to them, your houseplant will give you peace and joy.

Myrtle is an evergreen plant that exudes a pleasant aroma due to the essential oil secreted by the foliage. In indoor floriculture, the myrtle tree has become widespread due to its decorative appearance and the ability to purify the air of bacteria and microbes. The numerous flowers blooming on the plant in summer give a special appeal. Caring for a home perennial involves not only traditional activities, but also formative crown pruning.

Origin and botanical description of the plant

There are several legends describing the origin of the tree. According to one of them, Adam took a sprig of myrtle from the divine garden to grow a piece of paradise on the sinful earth. In Greek mythology, he is a symbol of hope and happiness. It is customary to decorate the hair of the bride and groom with wreaths of leaves during the wedding.

Common myrtle is an evergreen plant, the home of which is the Mediterranean. There are more than 100 varieties of shrubs and trees of the Myrtle family growing in subtropical climates. Under natural conditions, it grows up to 2 m in height, indoors it rarely exceeds 60-70 cm.

The trunk forms a large number of lateral and apical shoots, covered with thin bark. Small, oval leaves have a glossy dark green color. The short petioles are opposite. Flowers are bisexual, white, solitary, formed on thin peduncles. There are many stamens in the center of the petals. Myrtle fruits are blue-black or white pea-sized berries. Each fruit contains about 15 seeds.

Main varieties

The Myrtle family has been cultivated for over 400 years. The natural habitat of the plant is Europe, North Africa, the Azores and the southern states of America. The most popular varieties of evergreen shrub are:

1. Myrtle Communis. One of the most common types in home floriculture. Shoots are densely covered with small leaves of rich green color. Fragrant flowers are formed by white or creamy petals and a large number of fine stamens. Indoor plant height is 50-60 cm.
2. Myrtle Lemon... It got its name for the pronounced citrus aroma of elongated leaves. Under natural conditions, it is found in Australia, America and on the coast of the Black and Mediterranean Seas. The fruits of the evergreen shrub are used as a spice. An essential oil is obtained from the leaves. Suitable for home growing.
3. Myrtle Boethica... The variety is distinguished by the flexibility of the trunk and slow growth. This feature allows the tree to be used to create bonsai. Large, delicate leaves densely cover the winding crown.
4. Large-leaved myrtle... Variety with larger leaves and flowers compared to common myrtle. It is characterized by the highest content of phytoncides, which have a bactericidal and antimicrobial effect.
5. Myrtle small-leaved... Miniature leaves on short petioles reach a length of no more than 1.5 cm. Differs in slow growth. In favorable conditions, it blooms profusely throughout the summer.
6. Myrtle Gimmeneus... Indoor evergreen shrub grows up to 1 m in height. The oblong leaves have a delicate aroma. Long golden stamens are located in the center of the white petals. Fruits with a characteristic blue color with a high content of essential oil. The variety is considered a symbol of innocence and beauty.
7. Chilean myrtle... The second name of the variety is Myrtle Luma. The homeland of the evergreen shrub is South America. Multi-stemmed plants are covered with orange bark. Small leaves cover the cascading shoots. Flowers are excellent melliferous plants, fruits are used in cooking. The variety is grown for the creation of hedges and outdoor landscaping.
8. Variegated myrtle (variegata). An ornamental, low variety, characterized by leaves covered with pale yellow spots and strokes. Widespread in home floriculture. Requires good illumination to maintain the bicolor color of oval leaves.
9. Tarentino... A dwarf variety with emerald foliage and snow-white flowers. Differs in rapid growth. The room grows about 100 cm. It needs to maintain high humidity, picky about light.

Home-grown varieties are suitable for the formation of a standard tree or shrub with a crown of different geometric shapes.

Necessary conditions for growing

An evergreen tree needs a warm and humid microclimate. Growing and caring for myrtle at home requires constant control over these indicators. Most varieties require a lot of diffused sunlight. The flower is also sensitive to fresh air. To achieve a beautiful, even crown and annual flowering, you should provide the perennial with appropriate care.

Location and lighting

The flower is placed in the apartment on the south and east windows. During the dormant period, they are transferred to the north or north-west side of the room. During an active growing season, which lasts from mid-spring to late autumn, home myrtle is provided with light throughout the day.

In winter, the flower needs a temperature drop. The optimal microclimate for the rest period is 8-12 ° C and the absence of bright sunlight. In this case, the myrtle tree will be able to accumulate strength for flowering and foliage growth in the next season.

Air humidity

The subtropical climate in the homeland of the perennial is characterized by high humidity. If dry air is concentrated in the room, home myrtle sheds foliage. To maintain the optimum moisture level, it is recommended to spray the crown with warm water daily or to install a container with wet expanded clay next to the bowl. During dormancy, the flower is placed away from heating appliances, in which case spraying is not required.

Soil requirements

The soil in which the home flower is grown should be pH neutral, loose and fertile. The soil for myrtle is prepared based on the following proportions:

• 1/3 sod land;
• 1/3 peat;
• 1/3 coarse river sand;
• drainage from expanded clay or small stones.

Peat loosens the soil and helps to retain moisture between waterings. The fertile layer of garden soil serves as a source of nutrients. If desired, self-prepared soil is replaced with purchased soil for flowering house plants.

Care features

You should take care of your home myrtle differently throughout the year. In the spring-summer period, the tree needs close attention, since even minor mistakes in care provoke dropping of foliage, pest damage and cessation of flowering. During dormancy, the plant requires less effort on the part of the grower.

Need for watering

Drying out of the soil has a detrimental effect on the condition of the domestic perennial. It is recommended to water the soil during active growing season before the top layer dries out completely. Excess liquid is immediately drained from the pan so as not to provoke rotting of thin root processes. In winter, when the myrtle is resting, watering is reduced to 2 times a month. Tap water is preliminarily defended during the day.

Top dressing

Abundant flowering and lush crown is ensured by regular feeding of the home tree. Complex mineral fertilizer for myrtle is applied from March to October, once every 3 weeks. Top dressing with a high phosphorus content helps to form a large number of flowers. The green mass needs nitrogen.

Crown formation

If you do not form shoots of a house tree, it will take a pyramidal shape. Regular pruning of myrtle allows you to give the crown a decorative look in accordance with personal preferences. Bonsai can be created from dwarf and undersized varieties. Most growers prefer to form a rounded shape.

Regardless of the final goal, it is necessary to properly cut and pinch young shoots of home myrtle:

• formative pruning is carried out in the spring, after the tree has begun to grow new shoots;
• you can pinch the shoots during the entire growing season;
• to give the shape of the trunk, the lower branches are cut off; for a branchy shrub, the tops of the shoots should be pinched;
• bonsai begin to be created from plants that have reached 3 years of age;
• pinching the tops reduces the number of flowers;
• in winter, home myrtle is not pruned.

The formation of a decorative crown depends on the lighting of the flower. In order for the shoots to grow evenly from all sides, the bowl with the tree is gradually rotated around the axis. In this case, the leaves receive the same amount of sunlight.

Pests and diseases

The most common diseases and pests of domestic perennials are recognized by external signs:

• brown bulging dots on leaves with a sticky bloom appear when the scale insects attack. Affected shoots are wiped with a soapy sponge and sprayed with Aclectic solution;
• mealybugs appear on myrtle in the form of sticky fluff. The leaves are treated with an insecticide, the yellowed ones are removed;
• the spider mite leaves whitish cocoons on the back of the foliage. Without spraying the affected tree with an insecticide, most of the green shoots will turn yellow and fall off in 1-2 weeks;
• root rot appears when the soil is waterlogged, especially during dormancy. Black areas become visible at the tips of the leaves. The damaged roots are removed, the cut points are sprinkled with coal and the myrtle is planted in new soil.

Compliance with the watering regime and maintaining a high level of humidity helps to protect the home flower from pests and rot. Regular inspection of the crown allows you to identify the problem at an early stage.

Transplant timing and technology

Home myrtle needs an annual soil and bowl change only for the first 3-4 years. Young trees are transferred together with an earthen clod into a new pot every spring. Adult specimens grow in one container for at least 3 years. After the purchase, the myrtle is transplanted within 2 weeks, immediately after it adapts to the new microclimate. The general rules for planting perennials are as follows:

• the diameter of the bowl is half the diameter of the crown;
• on the bottom of the myrtle pot, put expanded clay or brick chips with a layer of 2-3 cm;
• the roots of a healthy plant do not free it from the earth;
• the root collar is left above the soil surface
• do not transplant myrtle during flowering.

If you plant a tree in a bowl that is larger than the recommended size, then flowers will begin to form only after the root system completely fills the soil.

Reproduction methods

At home, you can get a new plant in 2 ways: grow myrtle from seeds or propagate by cuttings. In the first case, the following technology is observed:

• seeds are placed in a moistened substrate of peat and sand;
• sprinkle with a thin layer of soil, spray with water and cover with transparent glass;
• provide a temperature of 18-22 ° C;
• 1-2 weeks after the emergence of seedlings, remove the shelter and water as the soil dries out;
• dive in the phase of 2 leaves into small seedling cassettes;
• as soon as the roots fill the container, they are transplanted into a bowl.

Myrtle grown from seeds at home begins to bloom in 4-5 years. With the help of propagation by cuttings, you can get a new tree faster.

• cut off semi-freshened shoots from the lower part of the trunk;
• a few upper leaves are left on a 5-8 cm long handle;
• treated with a root stimulant;
• buried in a moistened substrate of peat, sand and turf;
• leave to root under the film in a dark place at a temperature of 15-20 ° C;
• when new leaves appear, they are transferred into small bowls.

Unlike the seed propagation method, myrtles grown from cuttings bloom for 3-4 years.

Possible growing difficulties

Home myrtle, as a rule, reacts sharply to lack of moisture in the air and soil. The leaves turn yellow and dry out in a short time. If a problem is found, water the flower abundantly, get rid of excess water in the pan and increase the number of sprays. In case of waterlogged soil, myrtle also gets rid of foliage. You can revive the "flooded" bush by removing rotten roots and replanting into new soil.

If the leaves curl and crumble, this indicates excessive lighting. The flower should be protected from bright sunlight and regularly sprayed with a spray bottle. The reason why the leaves turn pale and grow small lies in the lack of lighting.

Thanks to its medicinal properties, fragrant leaves and flowers, the evergreen perennial has settled in many apartments and houses. Growing a decorative tree requires some effort, which pays off not only for the beautiful appearance of the plant, but also for its ability to purify the air in the room.

The evergreen woody plant myrtle belongs to the Myrtle family. In nature, these are trees or shrubs that can reach a height of three meters. Indoor plant myrtle at home is a bush with a round crown no more than one meter high. The plant has long been considered a symbol of hope, peace and glory. Our ancestors used myrtle flowers for cosmetic and medical purposes. Preparations from them are popular today. Lovers of indoor plants willingly grow a beautiful tree in their homes. Knowing how to care for myrtle correctly, you can get an optimal plant that will decorate your home with its leathery small leaves and simple or double fragrant flowers.

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

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

Ordinary world - home care

Myrtle communis (common) is a small tree with a short branched trunk. It has reddish-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 myrtle on windows on the west and east sides. On the southern windowsills 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 poor.

Air temperature... Indoor myrtle does not like heat and grows well at an air temperature of + 18 ... + 20 degrees. It is recommended to ventilate the room regularly. In winter, the plant must 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, at low temperatures in the room, spraying is not necessary. But, if it is not possible to provide the plant with cool conditions, spraying should be carried out several times a day. From working heating radiators at home, the air becomes dry, which is why leaves fall from the tree. To avoid this, increase the humidity around the plant. To do this, you can use special humidifiers or put a flower pot on a pallet with wet expanded clay or moss.

Watering myrtle... The tree is watered abundantly in spring and summer, as soon as the topsoil dries out. In winter, in a cool room, the frequency and abundance of watering decreases. In no case should the earthen coma dry out! Otherwise, leaves can fly around from a houseplant, dry out into twigs. If the soil is dry, place the pot in a container of water for a few minutes. Also, the soil should not be allowed to be wet all the time. Constant waterlogging of the soil can lead to root rot. Water for irrigation is used standing for a day.

Top dressing 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 you are not interested in its flowering, then fertilizers are used that are intended for decorative foliage plants.

Dormant period... Myrtu definitely needs a period of rest, during which he is gaining strength for flowering and foliage growth. Therefore, in winter, the plant is grown for three months in cool rooms. You can put a flower on a closed loggia, where the air temperature does not drop below +5 degrees. At this time, watering should be scarce, and fertilizing and spraying should be stopped. In a warm room, the dormant period of myrtle lasts about one and a half months.

Pruning myrtle... In order to give the tree the desired shape, pruning should be included in the care of myrtle at home. It can be carried out in early spring and after flowering. To get a tree, lateral shoots are cut. A bush-shaped plant is obtained by pruning the upper branches. If you do not cut the myrtle completely, then it will take on a pyramidal shape. However, it should be remembered that frequent pinching negatively affects 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 the branches. The houseplant myrtle grows quickly, so its appearance can be changed every year.

Myrtle transplant

It should be transplanted into new soil one to two weeks after purchase. In the future, young plants are transplanted every year, and adults - one is glad in two or three years. The new pot should be 2-3 cm larger than the previous one. You can buy the substrate at the store or make your own. The following potting mixes 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).

Drainage must be poured at the bottom of the pot, which is covered with a small layer of nutritious soil. The tree is carefully taken out 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. The base of the trunk does not need to be covered. The transplanted myrtle must be watered immediately.

Myrtle pests and diseases

Pests

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

High temperatures and dry air are favorable conditions for the appearance of scale insects, thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, whiteflies on the leaves of the tree. All of them feed on the sap of the plant, which is why they begin to dry, turn yellow and fly around the leaves. Treatment with Aktellik 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 can arise if the rules for caring for myrtle at home were not followed. Myrtle leaves dry for the following reasons:

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

Myrtle leaves fall

This situation can arise in the following cases:

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

With excessive lighting (in the summer on the southern windows), the leaves lose their shine, turn yellow and curl. If there is little light for the plant, then the stems are 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 mistakes in care. Take care of the plant according to all the above rules, and it will delight you with a beautiful, lush crown and flowering.

Cuttings are the safest and best way to propagate myrtle. Its seeds quickly lose their germination, in addition, with seed reproduction, flowering will occur only after three years.

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

Rooting procedure for cuttings:

1. The lower leaves are removed from the cut off 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 (Heterooxin or Kornevin).
4. A wide and low container is prepared.
5. Rooting soil should consist of sand and sphagnum (0.5: 1) or sand and leafy soil (0.5: 1).
6. The cuttings are placed in moist soil and covered with a glass jar or other transparent cover.
7. The containers are placed in a shaded place with an air temperature within + 17 ... + 20 degrees.
8. To prevent the soil from souring, the shelter needs to be removed for a short time 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 potting mix is \u200b\u200bused. Caring for young seedlings consists in regular moistening of the soil and spraying the foliage. Care must be taken to ensure that the soil does not dry out.

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

Myrtle properties

The plant has healing properties, as its fruits and young shoots contain active substances and essential oils with antibacterial action. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the tree in children's rooms and bedrooms, where it will cleanse the air from bacteria and microbes, protect health, and help cope with influenza and acute respiratory infections.

Myrtle tinctures help to treat cough, purulent otitis media, staphylococcal infections, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, diabetes mellitus.

Myrtle - signs

In different countries, the cultivation of indoor myrtle is treated differently.

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

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

Myrtle is an evergreen plant grown as a shrub and as a small tree. The myrtle tree is very popular as a gift for the bride, symbolizing a successful marriage. This plant is not that easy to maintain, but well worth it.

General information

Since ancient times, myrtle has been valued for its medicinal properties - flowers and foliage contain essential oils, and if the leaves and fruits are dried, they can be used as spices (spices). For example, carnation is a product obtained from one of the types of myrtle.

During the cold season, for prevention, they use essential oils, spreading their smell around the room, or simply put the plant on a windowsill, for example, in a children's room. Research has also shown that myrtle can reduce allergic reactions in children.

Myrtle also includes plants that are valuable in their characteristics, such as the tea tree, eucalyptus and clove tree.

Types and varieties

(Myrtus communis) or it is also called " communis "(Aka" indoor ") Is the most common type in home gardening. This species is characterized by a short, well-branched trunk, which is covered with peeling reddish-brown bark.

The leaves are green, oval, shiny and have a pleasant aroma. The flowers are white (sometimes a slight pink tint is observed) with protruding stamens. Blooms in the summer season. The fruits are black berries with a reddish tint.

This type of myrtle has many varieties:

• - a compact shrub with many fruits, smaller in size than that of the mother.

• Alhambra myrtle variety - has white berries and dense foliage.

• (Variegata) stands out among others for its variegated foliage.

• Myrtle "La Clape" - has purple berries.

• Among them there is a dwarf form - myrtle "Microphylla" .

This is a miniature copy of a tree, a very popular plant, is of great value to flower growers, its leaves contain essential oils used in medicine and cosmetology. The price of such a tree is not small.

The shape of such a tree can be varied, the trunk twists and bends in the process of growth, and thanks to the periodic pruning of the shoots, you can form the crown shape at will.

- it can be both in the form of a bush and in the form of a tree with brown peeling bark. Leaves are matte, dark green, white flowers blooming in July or August. Fruits are dark red - edible.

(Myrtus chequen) is a tree with glossy leaves and slightly wrinkled edges.

(Myrtus ralfii) - This bush is distinguished by pink flowers and red edible berries. The leaves have a white or cream edging.

Myrtle Boetica

Large-leaved, the leaves are larger than other species (6-7 cm, while the standard is 1-2 cm), with a pointed end. This myrtle grows very slowly. The trunk has an interesting feature - it twists, interesting shapes are formed in the process of growth. The flowers are white and large, and the berries are oblong, black.

(Cassandra or marsh myrtle ) Is an evergreen shrub that grows exclusively in swamps, from which it got its name. It reaches a height of one meter. Young shoots and leaves contain poison that is dangerous to animals (goats and sheep).

If you crush a leaf of such a plant, then you will feel a pronounced lemon aroma. In some countries, these leaves are used as a condiment. The size of the leaves: length 10 cm and width 1-4 cm. It blooms first with white flowers, and then darken to a creamy and slightly yellow shade.

Myrtle home care

Myrtle is a plant that needs a humid climate, so spraying is a must for healthy and lush growth. In no case should you forget about watering, but also do not pour, the plant is very sensitive and can get sick. Water only with soft, settled water.

But myrtle is not afraid of drafts, so you can safely leave it on the windowsill, where the window is constantly open for airing. With the flow of air, useful phytoncides will spread through the apartment, destroying pathogenic microbes.

The temperature must be controlled within 18-24 ° C. In the summer, it is advisable to expose the myrtle to the street or balcony and shade it a little so that the rays of the particularly scorching sun do not fall.

Pruning myrtle

As for pruning, myrtle tolerates it well, not to mention the fact that thanks to this, it is possible to give a different desired shape to the crown, creating various compositions. Pruning and transplanting is carried out in the spring season, no more than once every two years.

Myrtle transplant

When transplanting, they use the transshipment method, while choosing a pot slightly larger than the previous one. The soil for myrtle is simple, with good drainage. The substrate is prepared from equal parts of turf, peat and sand.

A little charcoal and organic compost will be helpful. Any varieties to be cut must be additionally fed, for this any fertilizers for indoor plants (complex mineral), without chlorine in the composition, are suitable. A young plant begins to bloom only in the fourth to fifth year after planting.

Myrtle care in winter

In winter, myrtle has a dormant period, while watering is reduced (only the soil is slightly moistened, preventing drying out) and the plant is rearranged to a cooler (8-10 ° C), but bright place.

If this is not done, then shedding of leaves is observed. Although this is not a big danger, since new, young leaves will begin to appear in the spring.

Propagation of myrtle by cuttings

If the main task during reproduction is the preservation of maternal (varietal) traits, then cuttings are considered the ideal breeding method.

Cuttings are cut from a healthy plant, they should not be very young, but in a semi-lignified form. For better rooting, the cut is processed with a special growth stimulator (for example, root) and stuck into the prepared soil at an angle (45-55 °). The substrate is constantly checked for moisture.

Myrtle from seeds at home

The seed method is less effective, but it is also used. At the beginning of spring, the prepared substrate (one part of peat and one part of sand) is poured into boxes (soil thickness 8-10 cm), sown with myrtle seeds, sprinkled on top with the same soil mixture (3-4 cm thick), moistened and covered with glass. The temperature regime is controlled in the region of 20 ° С.

The glass is opened periodically to ventilate and moisten the soil, if necessary. The glass can be turned over or wiped to remove excess condensation.

After a couple of weeks, the first seedlings will begin to appear, when there are too many of them, thinning is carried out, and after at least three leaves appear on the shoots, they are transplanted into separate pots with the same substrate composition. A month later, young plants are fed with nitrogen fertilizer of low concentration.

Diseases and pests

If, on the contrary, there is constant excessive watering, then in this case rotting of the roots and damage by putrefactive bacteria and fungal infections is inevitable, and this is already serious. It is not easy to deal with such problems and most often the death of the plant is observed.

• If a the leaves fade, turn yellow, and the edges curl , then this indicates an excess of lighting.
• If the stems are too stretched and the leaves are too small - this is a clear sign of a lack of lighting.
• Myrtle does not bloom - if pruning is carried out too often or too much pruning at one time, as well as if the room is poorly ventilated.
• Leaves dry up and fall - if this happens in winter, it means that the air is too dry and the temperature is too high (for example, when heating devices are working in the room). The plant needs a cooler room and a little moisture (just a little!). Also, leaves can wither when water stagnates in the pan or from sunburn (direct sunlight).