Nurseries and plant dealers offer an extensive range. New breeds are constantly appearing on the market. This naturally increases the biodiversity in German gardens. But anyone can buy. How about growing your own tree for a change? Feel free to go for exotic specimens. The eucalyptus, for example, is wonderful and will ultimately reward you with a great look.
How can you grow a eucalyptus yourself?
To grow a eucalyptus you need seeds that you sow in potting soil or cocohum. The seeds should lie on the substrate surface at 15-25°C, depending on the variety. Make sure you water regularly and have enough light during the germination period of 3-6 weeks.
Growing instructions
Growing a eucalyptus takes place in the following steps:
- Procuring seeds
- Seed pretreatment
- Seed stratification
- Sowing
- Germination time
- sustainable care
Procuring seeds
If you already own a eucalyptus and would like to propagate it, it is worth trying to take a few seeds from the existing tree. However, the easiest way is to order them from specialist retailers or online.
Preparation of seeds
To increase germination, you should mix the seeds with dry, fine sand.
Seed stratification
If you have chosen a hardy eucalyptus, you must store its seeds in the refrigerator for four to six weeks before sowing. Temperatures of 2-5°C are recommended for storage.
Sowing
You can sow eucalyptus all year round. The recommended substrate is
- Growing soil that you mix with sand or perlite
- or coconut hum
The eucalyptus is a light germinator. Make sure to only place the seeds on the surface of the substrate or to press them in very lightly. Cultivation should take place at around 20-25°C. For winter-hardy varieties, however, 15-18°C is ideal. Then keep the substrate moist throughout, but avoid waterlogging. Store the cultivation pots in a bright location.
Germination time
Regular watering continues to be important for growth. After the steps described, you now have to be patient for about 3-6 weeks.
Sustainable care
Depending on how you want to cultivate your eucalyptus, you should cut it back regularly. Keep the plant either on the balcony, in a pot on the terrace, in the garden bed or as a houseplant. In any case, place the deciduous tree in a bright, warm location and make sure to water it adequately. Fertilizing twice a week promotes growth.
