Myrtle does not bloom, what should I do? Myrtle - home care, flowering, propagation, replanting

Myrtle is one of the gardener's most favorite indoor plants. 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 has its origins 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 developing 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.

Leaves of a woody shrub

The woody shrub has straight stems that branch quite densely. The leaves of this beauty are dark green, dense, leathery. The shape of the myrtle leaf is oblong, slightly tapering towards the edge. The leaves grow very abundantly on the stems and are held on small petioles. The length of one leaf reaches from 2 to 5 cm. The leaves can have different shapes depending on the type of plant, for example, the hequen myrtle has wrinkled edges on the foliage.

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

Flowering indoor plant

Myrtle flowers grow singly in the axils of the leaves, or the blooms are collected in whole clusters. Flowering is mostly white, with occasional pink flowers. The flowers themselves are small, very fragrant and fragrant. The flowering of indoor myrtle is pollinated by a brush. The tree blooms in early summer and bears fruit in the fall. The fruits of this plant contain spice, they are edible and juicy, dark blue or deep red in appearance.

Popular types of myrtle

Today there are about one hundred different species of myrtle. This fragrant foliage beauty is represented by a wealth of species around 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 of 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, quite short.

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

Medicinal and beneficial qualities of the myrtle plant

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

One could go on and on about the benefits of myrtle 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 uses, 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, from tuberculosis and diphtheria bacilli. The antibacterial properties of myrtle plants are widely known, as well as the fact that the flower promotes anti-inflammatory processes in the body.

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

The essential oil, which is contained in the leaves, bark and flowers of the tree, perfectly tones and soothes. This oil is widely used for cosmetic purposes, because it treats the skin from acne, gives it freshness, and strengthens the hair. Myrtle oil also 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 improves immunity.

Proper care of myrtle at home

Many amateur gardeners are wondering how to care for myrtle so that it grows healthy and strong. Any indoor flower needs tender and attentive care, because it needs to feel cared for. If caring for the myrtle plant at home was complete, then this indoor beauty will certainly please the gardener with its lush growth. To do this, you need to follow a few simple tips.

Place and lighting for the flower

Myrtle loves sunlight, but the sun's rays should be in moderation, especially on hot summer days. You should not keep a flowerpot with a myrtle tree 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 western or eastern side. In summer, caring for a myrtle plant requires less effort; you just need to take it out into the fresh air, for example, onto a balcony. In winter, you need to provide the flower with good lighting.

Air temperature and humidity

Favorable atmosphere for the myrtle flower: how to care for it, what temperature to maintain, how to refresh it and not dry it out? It's all quite simple. 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 keep myrtle cool in winter, then in summer this beauty will bloom thickly and profusely. In the summer season, the flower should simply be kept in the fresh air, but protected from the sultry heat.

This evergreen tree requires high air humidity and copes very poorly with dry indoor air. The plant needs constant spraying in the summer, as well as in the spring and warm autumn, when it grows intensively and strengthens. When cold weather sets in, you don’t have to spray it.

Soil, fertilizer, and watering

The soil in the flowerpot with the myrtle plant should remain fairly moist. It is recommended that the flowerpot contain sand, humus, peat soil and turf soil in equal quantities. You can also make soil from clay, humus, peat and turf soil in equal quantities and add sand. An indoor tree should be watered regularly, but in moderation; do not overfill the flowerpot. Warm water is used for irrigation.

How much fertilizer does the myrtle houseplant require: cultivation and care during feeding, are there any special features? The fact is that feeding depends on what result the grower expects. 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 ornamental tree. Whatever the gardener’s choice, the main thing is not to forget to feed the myrtle flower once a week.

Replanting woody shrubs

Woody shrubs should be replanted as needed, and this should be done carefully and carefully.

During this important 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 beauty is young, you can replant it once a year, but try not to overdo it, because very large flowerpots will not do the tree any good. Also, it is necessary to remember that the flower is replanted in the spring before it begins to bloom.

Trimming and pinching

Myrtle needs pruning in order to achieve a beautiful shape. This foliage flower will be pleasing to the eye in any case, but if you give it the desired look with trimming, 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 bush, 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 pruned when the trunk is already strong, and this procedure must be carried out in the spring.

You can pinch the deciduous beauty as needed in order to increase the density of the crowns. The myrtle will become fuller and healthier after pinching, but it is not recommended to do this too often, as the tree may lose the density of flowering. Experienced flower growers know that procedures of this kind should be carried out in moderation, taking into account all the subtleties of the issue of myrtle vulgaris: care at home, 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 quite a lot of attention and care. The grower propagates by cuttings twice a year; to do 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 already in the third year of its growth.

For seeds, it is necessary to prepare the soil from peat and sand, distribute them evenly on the surface, sprinkle a thin layer of earth on top and cover with film. It is recommended to place this soil in a well-lit place and water it regularly. After about 2 weeks, when the seedlings have two leaves, 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 should you be wary of and how to properly protect a woody plant? Flower growers definitely need to know what myrtle diseases are in order to prevent their occurrence. The most common scourge is aphids, very unpleasant spider mites, and scale insects. These, as well as similar myrtle pests, 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 beautiful myrtle with water, paying special attention to the underside of the foliage.

Every gardener who can boast of a gorgeous myrtle plant in his collection is incredibly proud of it, because this flower carries many useful nuances. We can talk forever about the symbolism, history and beauty of this leafy favorite, but it’s better to just enjoy the sight of it in your home! Lots of useful information in the article:

Myrtle is a very beautiful and showy plant with fragrant leaves and flowers. The myrtle tree is not the most capricious specimen of garden fauna, but it is also quite demanding. Caring for and growing myrtle at home will require a lot of attention and care, since only in caring hands will it reveal its full potential.

The entire aerial part of myrtle contains a large amount of essential oil, which is used in alternative medicine to treat a wide range of diseases. Common myrtle will become a decoration for many years and decades not only in the house, but also on the balcony, terrace or garden.

The myrtle tree is one of the oldest cultivated plants. Thanks to various sources, there is evidence that many centuries ago the myrtle plant was grown as an ornamental garden tree. Great importance was attached to the flower back in Ancient Greece, where it personified innocence, youth and beauty.

There are many beliefs and legends associated with myrtle:

• in ancient times it was an integral part of the holiday in honor of Venus;
• during the Renaissance it served as a symbol of youth, marital fidelity and eternal love. Thanks to this, many people now believe in the sign that the bride’s wedding bouquet should contain a sprig of myrtle, as a sign of a future strong union;
• There is a superstition that myrtle in the house is the key to a good atmosphere, warm relationships, and a friendly family;
• According to legend, when passing by a myrtle bush, you should pick a leaf or twig if you want to live for many years and maintain good health and good spirits.

The evergreen myrtle is a tree or shrub from the Myrtaceae family with white fragrant flowers. The homeland of myrtle is the Mediterranean zone (North Africa, Southern Europe).
Myrtle is a very slow growing plant, annual growth is no more than 10–15 cm.
Myrtle leaves are lanceolate, dark green, opposite, on short petioles. The leaf blades contain myrtle oil. If you look through a sheet at a bright light source, you can see small dots and stripes, which contain oil.

The myrtle flower is axillary, bisexual, has a pleasant smell, five white petals are attached to a thin peduncle. Common myrtle flowers bloom in June-July. After flowering, edible round or ovoid fruits (berries) of dark or light color with a diameter of 5–8 mm are formed. One fruit berry contains 10–15 seeds. In the natural environment, the flowers of the plant are pollinated by insects; indoors, the procedure is carried out independently using a brush or a cotton swab. The fruits ripen in November-December.

In landscape design, standard plants have recently become popular. A myrtle trunk is a way to lift shrubs and give the plant an unusual appearance with a bare, even trunk without a single branch and a lush crown at the top.

Myrtle is a medicinal flower; preparations based on it have a tonic, antiviral, stimulating and antibacterial effect. Like any medicine, myrtle can bring both benefit and harm. Currently, in pharmacies, you can purchase a plant extract, which, in fact, is a natural antibiotic. By disinfecting and refreshing the air in the room, the flower carries positive energy, creating a favorable, healthy atmosphere at home. Healing preparations based on myrtle are used for the treatment and prevention of various diseases.

Women should use myrtle with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and older people. A flower pot with myrtle in the bedroom at the head of the bed can cause insomnia and severe headaches, as a result of which it should be placed away from the sleeping areas.

Bloom

The myrtle tree is a beautiful flowering plant with white fluffy flowers. Myrtle blooms (photo above) are observed throughout the summer and until mid-autumn. Myrtle begins to bloom if the watering regime is followed, the location is chosen correctly and there is enough lighting. Probably the myrtle does not bloom due to the frequent change of location of the flower. If you constantly move it from place to place, the plant does not have time to adapt to changes in lighting. You should gradually move the flower to a new place with brighter lighting.

Too low air humidity, a poorly ventilated room are possible reasons for the lack of color of the myrtle tree. When sick, the plant does not bloom; all its energy goes into recovery and survival.

Plant species

About 40 species are included in the myrtle genus, but only one is grown indoors - the common myrtle. In its natural environment, the myrtle tree is found in North Africa, Western Asia, on the islands of the Caribbean, and on the Mediterranean coast. Many varieties of myrtle are grown in botanical gardens, greenhouses, garden plots and at home. Varieties of myrtle differ in height, shape and color of leaves, so the Luma myrtle reaches 25 meters in height, and mini-variants of the myrtle tree grow no higher than 60 cm.

Common myrtle

The most popular is the common myrtle (Myrtus communis) or myrtle communis, also known as indoor myrtle. However, it was not widely used due to low winter hardiness. Prefers shady places and diffused sunlight. In its natural environment, it can be found under the canopy of large trees, in bushes in the Azores, North Africa, and the lands of the Mediterranean zone. In nature, the plant grows up to 2–5 m, in indoor culture no higher than 40–60 cm, rarely up to 1 m.

The trunk is short with dark brown-red bark. Stems are faceted, bare, rounded. Glossy, smooth, lanceolate, leathery leaves up to 5 cm long and up to 2 cm wide, arranged oppositely in one or three. Thanks to the presence of essential oil, the leaf blades emit a subtle, pleasant aroma. Single flowers, up to 2 cm in diameter, with five white, less often pale pink petals, have a brighter and richer aroma than the leaves.

Flowering begins in June-July in the third year of life. Seeds - black and red berries ripen by the end of October.

The species calmly tolerates a short-term drop in temperature to -10... -12°C, but freezes when exposed to lower temperatures for a long time. If the above-ground part freezes completely, new shoots grow from the root collar in the spring.

Many cultural forms are classified as common species.

Variegata

Myrtus Variegata

A variety of common myrtle. Variegata variety (Myrtus Variegata) or variegated with beautiful two-color leaves.

Green, large, oval-elongated leaves with white strokes and streaks along the edges. With a lack of lighting, the mottled spots fade and disappear. The aroma of flowers and leaves is less pronounced compared to common myrtle.

Bolotny

Myrtle Hamedaphne (swamp)

Myrtle Hamedaphne or Cassandra are other names for marsh myrtle. In nature, it is found exclusively in swampy areas, which is why it got its name. Bog myrtle is the most resistant to low temperatures. Tolerates snowy winters in central Russia well. The shape resembles a low, spreading shrub 80–100 cm in height with straight branches. Smooth dark green leaves up to 4 cm in length.

The flowers form racemose inflorescences in the axils of the leaves. During the cold season, Cassandra sheds its leaves. The above-ground part of the plant contains toxic substances that are dangerous to animals. Life expectancy is 40–50 years.

Luma

Myrtle luma

An evergreen tall species of myrtle, in its natural environment reaches 20–25 m in height. The trunk is highly branched, up to 50 cm in diameter, covered with smooth gray-brown bark. Young branches are pubescent. Leaves are up to 5 cm long and up to 2 cm wide, opposite, ovoid, tapering towards the petiole, the end of the leaf is rounded. The petiole is short, no more than 5 mm, covered with hairs. The leaf surface is smooth, the upper part is a darker rich green color compared to the underside. The leaves emit a strong odor.

Myrtle luma blooms profusely, white flowers are collected in racemose inflorescences in the axils of the leaves. Flowering period October-January. After flowering, a black-purple fruit up to 1.5 cm in diameter is formed; myrtle luma bears fruit from December to March. The tree is winter-hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -7...-10 C.

Most often in the natural environment it can be found in South America at an altitude of 500–1500 m above sea level, along the banks of rivers and lakes.

small-leaved

Small-leaved myrtle

A dwarf variety of common myrtle. Small-leaved myrtle is covered with small leaves up to 2 cm long. It grows no higher than 60 cm. It is often grown at home.

large-leaved

Myrtle large-leaved

A varietal form of common myrtle with large, opposite leaves up to 5 cm long, with a smooth, glossy surface and a pointed end. The plant can reach 3–4 m in height. Stems are tetrahedral. Myrtle macrofolia has medicinal properties; preparations based on it are used in alternative medicine. It has an antimicrobial effect, eliminates pathogenic microbes and bacteria.

How to care for myrtle at home?

At home, myrtle requires very high-quality and stable care. In addition to the main requirements for temperature conditions, watering, lighting and pruning, the plant needs a period of rest. This is the only main difficulty that may arise when growing a houseplant at home. If myrtle sheds its leaves, this is the first sign of improper care and maintenance.

Despite its capricious nature, the plant is quite tenacious and hardy, capable of recovering from freezing and fire, and can live up to 300 years.

Location and lighting

The best option for the plant would be a place with bright, diffused light. The flower loves to be in the fresh air; a place in front of an open window will be ideal for the plant. The window sills of western and eastern windows are the best place for a flower. On the south side, the plant requires protection from intense bright light in spring and summer.

Without compromising its decorative appearance, myrtle can be exposed to direct sunlight for several hours. In summer, the flower pot is taken out into the open air onto a balcony, terrace or garden; the new place should be protected from direct sunlight.

Temperature

At home, caring for myrtle requires close attention. From the beginning of spring until the dormant period, the plant must be kept at a temperature of +18...+20 C. During the dormant period, in winter, the temperature should not be higher than +10 C and not lower than +5 C.

Air humidity

Since the plant comes from hot southern countries, it should be provided with a slightly higher than normal humidity level, about 60%. At home, air humidity is quite low, and in winter the air is even drier due to working central heating radiators. Plant care involves not only maintaining water balance, but also periodically spraying the plant with soft, settled or filtered water.

Watering

One of the nuances of caring for a capricious plant is proper, stable watering. The soil should always be kept moderately moist. How to water myrtle correctly so as not to harm the flower? It is necessary to draw up a watering schedule and calculate the required amount of water.

Myrtle is very sensitive to the watering regime and even a single miscalculation (applying insufficient or too much water) can affect the decorative qualities of the flower. Warm, soft, settled water should be used.

Do not allow the soil to become too dry or waterlogged. Watering is carried out as the top layer of soil dries. As soon as excess water has drained into the pan, it is removed, otherwise the roots may rot. When the soil dries out, the pot with the plant is not watered in the traditional way, but placed in a container of water. Complete drying of the earthen clod can lead to the death of the flower; in this case, it is almost impossible to revive the myrtle.

Soil for planting and replanting

The optimal soil for planting and replanting myrtle is chosen from three options.
The first soil option for myrtle is an earthen mixture of equal parts of turf, peat soil, humus and sand. The second option is regular greenhouse soil. The third - one part each of clay, turf, peat soil, humus and ½ part sand. In this case, you need land with an acidity level in the range of 5–6. To avoid stagnation of water, choose a flower container with a sufficient number of holes in the bottom. The plant is provided with a good drainage layer of expanded clay, broken brick or crushed nut shells.

Feeding and fertilizers

Myrtle is a fastidious plant, so care at home is necessary. Myrtle fertilizers are necessary for full growth and lush, abundant flowering. As a fertilizer, myrtle should be given only special complex mixtures for indoor or container crops. Fertilizing is applied during the period of active growth every 14 days.

The nutritional mixture should always be liquid. The fertilizer is diluted in warm water and applied only the next day after watering.

Any other types of fertilizers and fertilizers (organic, mineral, special garden) are not suitable for myrtle.

Winter care

A characteristic feature of the flower is a long period of rest (hibernation). The duration of the myrtle dormancy period depends on the location of the flower pot in the room. On windows with a northern orientation, the dormant period is 3 months, on western and eastern windows about two months, on southern ones no more than 1.5 months.

Caring for myrtle during hibernation differs from maintaining the flower during the growing season. In winter, watering is limited, the plant is not sprayed, and the temperature is maintained within +5...+10 C. If the temperature is violated and the flower is kept in a hotter room, the plant may lose its leaves.

Difficulties in growing

Growing myrtle large and healthy is not an easy task. Many people, when buying a flower, soon discover that the plant has a very complex character. Shortcomings and errors during cultivation are reflected in the appearance of the flower.

When a pot of myrtle is placed in a shaded place with insufficient lighting, its leaves begin to turn pale and become smaller. What to do in this case? The first step is to move the flower pot to a more illuminated place. Under intense bright light, the leaf blades lose their rich green color, becoming duller. When exposed to direct sunlight for a long time, the leaves wither, become deformed, and the edges become wavy. If myrtle leaves fall, this indicates a violation of the temperature regime; it is higher than permissible.

Myrtle dries out and sheds its leaves if the watering schedule is incorrect, or if there is too much or too little water in the soil.

If the reason why myrtle dries is due to overdrying or waterlogging of the soil, it is necessary to cut the shoots in half. When the soil is dry, watering is carried out as usual. If the reason for dropping leaves is waterlogging of the soil, water with caution, halving the amount of water.

If the soil is very wet, the roots may begin to rot, in which case replanting is required. The first sign of eliminating the cause of improper care is the appearance of new leaves. In case of drying out, when the myrtle leaves fall off, you can revive the plant by immersing the flower pot in a container of water. If the myrtle has dried up, completely lost its leaves, and the branches have lost their flexibility, then in most cases it will not be possible to save it.

Lack of flowering indicates too frequent pruning and lack of fresh air flow (more frequent ventilation is required).

Trimming and pinching

Myrtle is completely calm about pruning and pinching. In its natural environment, the plant has a pyramidal crown shape. To maintain and form the desired shape, the plant needs regular pruning and trimming.

The crown formation procedure is carried out after “hibernation” before the growing season. The shape of the plant can be changed by pinching and trimming last year's growths, leaving 3-4 buds. This will allow new side shoots to form. If you trim the top shoot, the flower will bush, pinching the side shoots - the plant takes the form of a crowned tree with a branching crown.

This process stimulates more accelerated tissue healing, growth and adaptation to a new form. During this period, the plant needs additional strength. Immediately after pruning, apply a full dose of fertilizer, regardless of the main schedule of planned fertilizing. Applying fertilizer on schedule and after pruning are two independent procedures, even if there is a difference of several days between them, one should in no case replace the other.

After pruning the crown in spring, the growth of branches will increase; the plant will not bloom in the coming summer. For annual flowering, pruning is carried out in the summer, after flowering or in winter. You should make a choice between neat branching bushes and a beautiful flowering plant with a natural crown.

Diseases and pests

The evergreen perennial is quite resistant to disease and attack by insect pests. However, with improper maintenance, violation of temperature conditions, water balance, and improperly selected lighting, it is likely that diseases and pests will appear on myrtle. Myrtle is most often affected by scale insects, aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, thrips, and spider mites.

Signs of damage by various pests:

• in case of defeat scale insect a sticky coating appears on the leaves;
• light formation in the form of fluff on leaves and twigs indicates the appearance mealybug;
• thrips cause the appearance of light spots on the upper side of the sheet and dark spots on the bottom;
• when aphids leaves dry and curl;
• the formation of a white cobweb on the underside of the leaf indicates damage to the flower spider mite.

Planting and propagation

Myrtle is propagated in two ways - seed and vegetative (cuttings). Both methods give good results, but with the vegetative method, flowering occurs much earlier compared to the seed method. Propagation by cuttings is the only method of maintaining cultivars. Propagation by seeds does not guarantee the preservation of varietal characteristics. Due to its slow growth, it will not be possible to quickly grow a large plant.

Many people give up the idea of ​​growing myrtle from scratch and purchase an adult flower, since the purchased plant is quite large in size, with a formed crown. Those who bought myrtle in flower shops receive advice and recommendations from specialists on care and replanting after purchase, and pruning. Despite its capricious nature, the plant reproduces well, planting myrtle is quite simple, but difficulties arise in ensuring comfortable, optimal maintenance.

Propagation by cuttings

For this method, cuttings of 6–10 cm are cut from the lower and middle parts of the crown from semi-lignified annual growths. The lower cut is made under the bud at the place of leaf attachment. To minimize moisture loss, some of the leaves on the cuttings are cut off at the base, except for the top ones, which are shortened by half. Select wide, low containers filled with an earthen mixture of equal parts of leaf soil and sand.

The cuttings are planted in a moist substrate to a depth of 4–6 cm, at a distance of 5–10 cm from each other, and sprayed. The box with cuttings is covered with transparent film or glass to create a greenhouse effect. Keep the cuttings in a cool room at a temperature of +16...+20 C, with diffused light. Periodically, the container is opened for ventilation to avoid rotting of the cuttings.

Rooting of cuttings occurs by the end of the first month. The first sign of successful rooting is the appearance of new leaves. Next, the cuttings are planted in separate flower pots up to 7–10 cm high with an earthen substrate made of equal parts of sand, turf, peat, humus soil. Water young plants abundantly.

The next transplant, into a more spacious pot, is carried out when the roots of the plant completely fill the flower container.

Myrtle is propagated by cuttings in winter (January-February) and in summer - in July. Myrtle grown from cuttings blooms for 3–4 years.

Propagation by seeds

The process is quite labor-intensive and less effective compared to the vegetative one. To get a new plant from seeds, you need to be patient. Prepare a wide container for sowing, with an earthen mixture of peat and sand in equal parts. Myrtle seeds are placed on the surface of the soil at some distance from each other, and sprinkled with a thin layer of substrate on top. The container is covered with a transparent lid (glass, polyethylene), kept in a warm, bright room at a temperature of +18...+20 C. Ventilate daily, removing the lid for 20–30 minutes to avoid acidification of the soil. The soil should be moderately moist; it is highly undesirable to overdry the soil.

The first shoots when myrtle is propagated by seeds appear by the end of the second week or even earlier.

After the formation of two true leaves, the seedlings are transplanted into individual pots of appropriate size. The earth mixture for picking is prepared from equal parts of turf, peat soil, humus and sand. Stunting after transplantation is a common occurrence for young seedlings. Adapting to a new place, they begin to grow again.

The next transplant is carried out only after the flower pot is completely filled with horses. In the future, caring for young plants is identical to adult ones. Myrtle grown from seeds blooms in the fifth year of life.

Myrtle seeds

Transfer

At home, myrtle is transplanted in the spring. Young trees are transplanted annually, then the procedure is repeated if necessary. The first sign that a transplant is needed is the appearance of roots from the drainage holes of the flower pot.

For the myrtle transplant procedure, prepare a more spacious pot compared to the previous flower container. The edges of the pot should not extend beyond the crown of the plant. It is necessary to remove the entire root system from the pot together with the earthen ball without damaging it. To do this, the flower is not watered for several days. Holding the plant firmly by the base at the roots, turn the pot over and remove the root ball. The lower roots are carefully released from the ground. A drainage layer is placed at the bottom of the flower container and sprinkled with earth. The plant is lowered into a pot and covered with soil. It is necessary to ensure that the base of the trunk does not go deep into the soil.

The transplantation procedure can stop the growth of the plant; to adapt, the flower is placed in a warm, shaded place.

Transplanting myrtle after purchase

After purchasing, the myrtle must be replanted. Replacing the soil with a new one, more nutritious and enriched with nutrients, will benefit the plant and allow it to grow faster.

Before replanting, you need to carefully monitor the soil moisture - the ideal condition is 2-3 days after watering. A dried earthen ball will be easier to remove from the pot without damaging the root system. When you remove the myrtle from the pot, be sure to hold it by the bottom of the trunk close to the ground. If it is difficult for the earthen ball to come out of the pot due to overgrown roots, then you should take a sharp tool (for example, a knife) and carefully walk it along the walls of the pot.

The diameter of the pot should be a couple of centimeters larger than the previous one. Drainage is poured onto the bottom (for example, expanded clay), prepared soil is added and the plant is planted, leaving the root collar on the surface. Then the newly planted plant is watered abundantly, and the remaining water is drained from the pan.

Application in medicine

In alternative medicine, the beneficial healing properties of myrtle have been known since ancient times and are widely used. Due to the presence of a large amount of essential oil and other useful components, myrtle has gained fame as an excellent healer. Myrtle oil is widely used throughout the world, which is used in many areas of medicine. Decoctions, inhalations, lotions and tinctures of myrtle are useful for various ailments, prevention and prevention of diseases and inflammations of the female genital, genitourinary, digestive system, and respiratory organs. From room myrtle at home, you can make decoctions, infusions and tinctures. It is better to buy essential oil in pharmacies.

Medicinal and beneficial properties of myrtle

Preparations based on the plant (myrtle oil, tincture, decoction) provide:

• astringent;
• wound healing;
• hemostatic;
• antitumor;
• antitoxic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• painkiller;
• and antiviral effect.

The healing properties of myrtle are used for inflammatory diseases of the digestive system (gastritis, ulcers, colic), since preparations based on myrtle have an astringent, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effect.

Myrtle oil, as an infusion for external and internal use, is excellent for various seasonal viral and colds. With sore throat, runny nose, sore throat, flu, it is good to be near the plant, because by releasing phytoncides, myrtle destroys pathogenic microbes, increasing immunity and overall body resistance. For colds, it is useful to chew a couple of myrtle leaves several times a day, this will strengthen the immune system and cope with the disease faster.

The soothing and analgesic properties of myrtle essential oil for headaches, migraines are very effective.

The plant can be attributed to natural antibiotics, since it contains myrtilin. Myrtle has a powerful antibacterial, antiviral and immunostimulating effect.

Contraindications

Unique in its healing properties, myrtle has a number of contraindications. Preparations based on it are not recommended for use during pregnancy, during breastfeeding, with individual intolerance to the components of the oil, as well as for elderly people.

When planning the location of a flower in an apartment, it is highly recommended not to place a flower pot at the head of the bed. The plant can cause sleep disturbances.

Use in cooking

Common myrtle and its cultivated varieties are widely used in different countries with different culinary traditions. It is used as an additive in the preparation of many dishes and drinks. Jam is made from fresh fruits and berries and liqueur is made. Dried fruits are added in the production of sausages. Myrtle leaves, along with bay leaves, are added to pickles and marinades. The bark and branches of the tree are used to cook meat and fish on the grill or fire; they give the dish a unique aroma. Use the plant as a seasoning for dishes with caution; in large quantities it gives the dish a bitter taste.

Application in cosmetology

The beneficial properties of myrtle are widely used in cosmetology. Having a tonic, anti-inflammatory, soothing, nourishing, strengthening effect, myrtle oil is used in various cosmetic preparations. Oil-based creams are excellent for the treatment and prevention of oily, porous, acne-prone skin. The oil allows you to eliminate and prevent the appearance of rosacea, the appearance of clearly defined blood vessels on the skin of the face. The oil nourishes, moisturizes and evens out skin color, gives it a healthy appearance, and relieves inflammation. Myrtle oil is an indispensable remedy for excessive sweating, seborrhea, weak, brittle and falling hair. Thanks to its strengthening properties, it is possible to significantly reduce hair loss, strengthen hair follicles, improve their structure and general condition.

Application in landscape design

Common myrtle will fit perfectly into any home interior. Thanks to its disinfecting properties, it is ideal for children's and playrooms. The myrtle tree with its capricious nature is suitable only for true lovers of ornamental southern plants. At home, with some experience and a good supply of patience, you can form a crown of a certain shape over the course of several years. Optimal comfortable conditions can transform an evergreen tree into a lush, beautifully flowering plant. Currently, in specialized flower shops you can buy myrtle bonsai - a ready-made, formed miniature tree.

Small-leaved myrtle

Myrtle is an unusual plant from the Myrtaceae family. The name means "incense". Myrtle prefers to grow in subtropical conditions, mainly in Mediterranean countries.

The plant received this name because its leaves and flowers contain essential oils with a pleasant and soothing aroma. Myrtle looks like a small tree with elongated and pointed leaves. The leaf petioles are short and the color is bright green.

Watering

Myrtle needs to be watered regularly. Since the plant is of subtropical origin, it loves moisture, so in addition to constant watering, it requires daily spraying with water. If the myrtle does not receive enough water, it will begin to dry out and turn yellow.

Like other flowers, myrtle is best watered and sprayed with settled water. In winter, you need to slightly reduce watering to once a week. Spraying remains only if the room is warm.

Lighting

It is better to place this plant on the south side, since on other sides it will be less comfortable and may not bloom. When the sun's rays shine intensely on the plant, it is better to close it with a curtain so that it does not get burned.

Temperature and humidity

The most favorable temperature for myrtle is approximately 22-24 degrees. Periodic exposure to the balcony or garden will have a positive effect on the plant.

If it is not possible to remove the plant, then it is worth ventilating the room. In winter, myrtle will be more comfortable at temperatures up to 10 degrees, but the humidity level should be lower than in summer.

Top dressing

This plant can be fertilized with complex fertilizers, which are specially designed for flowering indoor plants. In summer, fertilizing should be added once a week, and in winter once a month.

Transfer

Myrtle grows slowly, so you shouldn't replant it too often. It is better to do this once a year, increasing the size of the pot.

An already grown plant can live for three to four years without replanting. The optimal time for replanting myrtle is the winter season, since during this period the tree is in a dormant state.

Replanting should begin by not watering the plant for several days to make it easier to remove. The pot turns over and the tree will easily slip out, so you must hold it. If you treat the roots with a stimulant, it will be easier for it to take root.

In a new pot, drainage is first done, and then it is filled with expanded clay and the substrate is prepared; it will need to be poured to the bottom. Then the plant itself is installed and covered with substrate. After replanting is completed, the tree must be watered abundantly and the myrtle taken to a dark place.

Reproduction

Myrtle can be propagated by two methods:

• Cuttings;
• Seeds.

With the cutting method, it is important that the soil temperature reaches 25 degrees. Reproduction is carried out through apical cuttings. Its length should be 7-9 cm; if you choose a smaller cutting, you cannot cut it from a flowering shoot.

The leaves are picked and the cut is processed. After this, the cutting must be planted, preferably in a mixture of sand and peat, this is the most favorable environment for the plant. The top of the cuttings should be covered with film. The growth process at room temperature is faster.

The second propagation method is using seeds. Unlike cuttings, seeds take a long time to grow. For this method of cultivation, the same substrate is used with the addition of soil, all of which is covered with film.

In order for the seeds to germinate, they need diffused light and the temperature must be at 21 degrees. When propagating using this method, myrtle needs to form a crown; to do this, you will need to pinch the sprout at the desired height. Myrtle will bloom no earlier than in the second or third year.

Bloom

In order for the plant to bloom, it cannot be pruned in the spring; it is best to do this when flowering is completely over.

Myrtle blooms from early to mid-summer (June-July). In order for the flowers to be beautiful, certain conditions must be observed during this period. The tree must receive proper care and a constant supply of fresh myrtle air.

If the plant is not cared for promptly and correctly, it will develop diseases and will not bloom under such conditions. Another reason for the lack of flowers may be stagnant air in the room.

Arrangement of myrtle flowers:

• Single in leaf axils;
• Or collected in brushes.

There are usually either four or six petals on a flower. Since the plant receives more light from above, the flowers are mainly located there.

Tree diseases and pests

This plant does not have any special diseases, but they still occur sometimes. If the soil has poor drainage, myrtle may develop root rot. Some problems with the tree may arise due to improper care or failure to comply with certain important points.

The reason is insufficient lighting and incorrect watering proportions. Myrtle is a plant that requires constant care, so it is extremely important to follow all the conditions for caring for it.

The myrtle tree is susceptible to danger from insects. The following insects can harm the plant: thrips, scale insects, spider mites, aphids. Therefore, myrtle needs to be carefully monitored. If signs of damage to the myrtle appear, it is necessary to carefully examine it for the presence of insects. Most often, pests attack old plants.

Those housewives who grow this plant have common questions. We will consider the most frequently asked questions.

Why doesn't myrtle grow? There can be many reasons for a tree's lack of growth. Firstly, do not forget that this plant, in principle, grows slowly. You need to try to take good care of it and feed it as needed.

Common myrtle (Myrtus communis), the myrtle tree is a common inhabitant of the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Azores Islands, the height of the tree in its natural habitat is 3-5 meters, and when grown for decorating the interior of a home, the tallest myrtle trees can reach 1 meter. It is an evergreen tree or indoor tree. It has entire leathery leaves and blooms with white flowers on short racemes.

Among the myrtaceae there are 40 species of families. Myrtle leaves and shoots, when processed accordingly, are used in pharmaceuticals and perfumery, due to their high saturation with natural essential oils.

Why is this common myrtle so attractive, especially to poets? From F. M. Tyutchev: “Do you know the land where myrtle and laurel grow, the vault of the azure sky is deep and pure...?” From V. Ya. Bryusov: “He who wants to entrust himself to friendship, the healing heart, Let him fall in love with the myrtle, the youths’ fresh wreath... It is not alien to the foam-born, the myrtle keeps the secret of Bacchus in the dark mysteries, the god who passed through death.”

In A.S. Pushkin’s lyceum poems: “... The lips of a young Spanish woman are burning; And the myrtle blows, and the orange breathes.” From I. A. Bunin: “Theseus fell asleep in a wreath of myrtle and laurel.” In his poetic dedication to the poet E. A. Baratynsky, A. K. Tolstoy wrote: “And where the myrtle rustles over a quiet urn, I will see again, through the dark forests, And the arches of the rocks, and the seas, the azure shine, And clear, like joy , heaven?" And these are not all quotation confirmations where the word myrtle is used - this adds a special mystery to the common myrtle.

Popular rumor ascribes to myrtle the ability to bring youth, beauty and health to the house where it is grown. In the customs of many European peoples, branches and flowers of myrtle were elements of decoration of heroes, were included in the decoration of the bride’s wedding dress, and at the birth of daughters, the family was given a myrtle tree, which was considered a symbol of peace and hope, gave confidence in one’s abilities and supposedly relieved fear. Myrtle trees were often planted near the graves of the deceased.

Growing and caring for myrtle

If your choice nevertheless fell on the myrtle tree, then you must approach this with all responsibility. For all its attractive properties, this is a very demanding and regimented plant: it must be watered and fed in a certain manner, without missing deadlines.

Prefers bright, diffused sunlight, although it also accepts direct sunlight for a short time. It is better to keep the myrtle tree on western or eastern window sills, but if there are none in the apartment, then you need to think about shading the window during the midday. Lighting through a north window is also acceptable, but it will reduce the flowering of the myrtle tree - you will need a phytolamp.

For myrtle, you need to observe a certain temperature regime: in spring and summer within 18-20 warm degrees, and in winter - on a cool loggia, where it should be no lower than 5 and no higher than 10 warm degrees. Otherwise, the myrtle tree may shed its leaves.

The myrtle watering regime is as follows: from spring to autumn, abundant - with soft, settled water when the top layer of soil dries; in late autumn and winter - minimally limited, but drying out of the upper part of the soil is unacceptable, just as stagnation of water in the pan is unacceptable. If drying out does occur, then the “resuscitation” watering should be as follows: immerse the myrtle and pot in a container with soft, settled water for 10-15 minutes, after which the excess moisture should drain off so that the pan is dry.

There are also requirements for air humidity. During the period of active vegetation and flowering, myrtle needs regular spraying with settled, soft or filtered water. It should not be sprayed in the autumn-winter period. The dormant period of myrtle correlates with its location: on the northern side - up to 3 months, and on the southwestern side - no more than one and a half months.

The myrtle tree can grow “shaggy”, but it can also be trimmed, but this should be done by an experienced florist, because side shoots cannot be trimmed, especially young ones. The trunk of the myrtle tree is not rigid enough. Care should be taken when pinching its young shoots, which can cause a decrease in the flowering of myrtle.

The approach to myrtle is not easy. If you agree to a natural-looking myrtle tree, then if it grows quickly enough, within two years you will have an attractive branched bush. You can achieve abundant flowering of myrtle to the detriment of the development of its lush crown. Myrtle needs to be fertilized by specialized fertilizer only during the active growing season, which can be purchased at a flower shop.

Transplantation and propagation of myrtle

Replanting young myrtle plants is required annually. It is produced by the usual method of transferring it into a larger pot, with new drainage without deepening the stem. It is better to buy suitable soil in a specialized store, but you can prepare it yourself. The mixture should consist of equal parts of turf soil, river sand, and humus.

Myrtle is capable of propagation by cuttings and seeds in the usual manner. In the first case, from January to February and July, cuttings that have become woody are cut off and rooted in a low container, in soil consisting of turf and leaf soil with the addition of coarse sand. It is convenient to place the container with seedlings in a plastic bag with several small holes for ventilation, in a shaded place. Rooting of myrtle cuttings will occur in a month - they just need to be planted in the main pot and watered abundantly, avoiding stagnation of water in the tray.

For propagation by seeds, soil consisting of peat and river sand in equal parts is required. Simply spread the seeds over the damp surface of the soil and cover with glass, moisten with periodic spraying, and at the same time ventilate the greenhouse. Such a greenhouse should be kept at 20 warm degrees. As soon as the seeds germinate and by the end of the second week they have already produced two leaves, they should be planted in pots, which are also good to keep in soft plastic greenhouses with a hole for air for adaptation and successful rooting of the sprouts.

Ways to combat pests and diseases of myrtle

As mentioned above, myrtle is a very whimsical plant that does not allow errors in care. There is little light - it stretches out with skinny stems with small pale leaves; excess lighting - leaves turn yellow and fade; in a dark and hot room, the myrtle will shed its leaves.

Overdrying or overmoistening are two more enemies of myrtle. All these reasons can lead to unwanted leaf fall. If this botanical grief occurs, proceed immediately to the following operation: cut the shoots to half with sharp scissors; eliminate the cause of this misfortune and continue care in a strictly correct manner. If there was overmoistening, carefully remove it, stop watering until the top layer dries, make sure that the pan remains dry all the time and in two weeks, or maybe earlier, the myrtle will return to its former prosperous life - young leaves will appear

Myrtle also has pests. These are spider mites, coccids and pemphigs. Old myrtle trees are more vulnerable to them, although if the care technology is violated, a young specimen may also suffer. First, you should try gentle control methods when changing improper care conditions. If a spider mite appears, you can simply wash it off with a stream of water. Wash off coccid and pemphig with a soft brush and a soap-alcohol solution (drop a drop of gel for children into vodka).

From everything that has been said about growing myrtle, one might form an opinion about the excessive capriciousness of this wonderful plant - and rightly so, but the game is worth the candle - a well-groomed myrtle will delight the sense of smell with an unusually pleasant and subtle smell, and delicate flowers and a healthy crown will please your sometimes tired look, give peace and homeliness peace. This plant will become a real decoration for anyone... You have to “get sick” of myrtle!