Compared to other types of araucaria, the Chilean araucaria is considered to be particularly robust. Nevertheless, this ornamental fir also needs the right care so that it grows well and maintains its decorative appearance. How to care for the Chilean monkey tree.
How do I properly care for a Chilean Araucaria?
Caring for the Chilean Araucaria includes regular watering without waterlogging, fertilizing potted plants if necessary, avoiding pruning, careful transplanting and protection from frost in the first few years. Pests are rare, but quick action is required in the event of root rot or fungal infestation.
How is the Chilean Araucaria properly watered?
The Chilean araucaria needs a lot of water, but it cannot tolerate any waterlogging. You should water outdoor trees more frequently in summer.
Grow the Chilean Araucaria in the pot and water whenever the surface of the substrate has dried.
Is fertilization necessary?
You can avoid fertilizing the monkey tree outdoors. When caring for it in a pot, fertilizing is necessary if the tree has been growing in the same substrate for a long time. Give long-term fertilizer (€10.00 on Amazon) or fertilize the monkey tree with a liquid fertilizer.
Does the Chilean Araucaria need to be cut?
You should avoid cutting the Chilean araucaria if possible. Pruning destroys the decorative appearance. If you cannot avoid cutting, shorten the branches directly on the trunk.
Can you transplant a Chilean Araucaria?
You should only transplant a Chilean araucaria if it cannot be avoided, for example because the current location is unfavorable.
Transplanting is only done in spring or early summer. Provide a bright, draught-proof location with water-permeable soil.
What pests or diseases can occur?
Pests are very rare and only appear when the humidity is very low.
Root rot caused by waterlogging is more common. This can be prevented by using a water-permeable substrate or moderate watering.
If a fungal infection occurs, the Chilean araucaria can usually no longer be saved.
How is the Chilean monkey tree overwintered?
In the first few years, the Chilean araucaria is not hardy and must be protected from frost. Therefore, first plant them in a pot that you will overwinter in a bright, frost-free location.
Provide a sheltered outdoor space. Cover the ground with a layer of mulch and wrap the monkey tree with jute, brushwood or other suitable materials.
Tip
In its native Chile, the Chilean araucaria is now considered almost extinct. The trees are either male or female. The cones of female trees are edible.
