Lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is a versatile and aromatic Australian native tree that can be successfully grown in pots, making it accessible for gardeners with limited space or those living in cooler climates. This guide will walk you through the process of cultivating lemon myrtle in containers, from selection to care and maintenance.
Selecting the Right Pot
When growing lemon myrtle in a pot, size matters. Start with a container that’s at least 60cm in diameter and depth or as the tree grows you’ll need to repot it into larger containers. Cube Planters work especially well. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent water logging.
Materials to consider:
- Terracotta: Provides good air circulation but can dry out quickly. Cheap, but likely to crack as roots grow.
- Plastic: Lightweight and retains moisture well
- Fibreglass: Exceptionally strong and lightweight.
Potting Mix
Lemon myrtle thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Use an Australian native potting mix or create a custom potting mix:
- 2 parts quality potting soil
- 1 part perlite or coarse sand for drainage
- 1 part compost or well-rotted manure
Aim for a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. You can add a small amount of agricultural lime if the mix is too acidic.
Planting Your Lemon Myrtle
- Fill the pot about one-third full with the potting mix.
- Gently remove the lemon myrtle from its nursery container.
- Place the tree in the centre of the pot, ensuring the top of the root ball is slightly below the rim.
- Fill around the root ball with potting mix, firming gently.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Positioning Your Potted Lemon Myrtle
Lemon myrtle prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial. Consider the following:
- Place the pot where it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Protect from strong winds, which can dry out the plant.
- In cold regions, position near a north-facing wall for added warmth and protection.
Watering Regime
Consistent moisture is key for potted lemon myrtle:
- Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Ensure water drains freely from the bottom of the pot.
- Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
- Use a moisture meter for more accurate watering.
Fertilising Your Potted Lemon Myrtle
Regular feeding is essential for potted lemon myrtle:
- Apply a slow-release native plant fertilizer in spring and late summer.
- Supplement with liquid seaweed fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
- Avoid high-phosphorus fertilizers, as lemon myrtle is sensitive to phosphorus.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning helps maintain shape and encourages bushier growth:
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain desired size and shape.
- Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
- Pinch out growing tips to promote branching.
Regular maintenance tasks:
- Check for pests and diseases regularly.
- Clean leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust.
- Rotate the pot occasionally to ensure even growth.
Overwintering Potted Lemon Myrtle
In cooler regions, protect your lemon myrtle during winter:
- Move the pot to a sheltered location or indoors if temperatures drop below freezing.
- Reduce watering but don’t let the soil dry out completely.
- Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy.
Repotting
Repot your lemon myrtle every 2-3 years if it outgrows its current container:
- Choose a pot 1-2 sizes larger than the current one.
- Repot in spring before new growth begins.
- Gently tease out the roots if they’re circling the root ball.
- Use fresh potting mix and trim any damaged roots.
Harvesting and Using Lemon Myrtle
Lemon myrtle leaves can be harvested year-round:
- Pick leaves as needed for fresh use.
- For drying, harvest stems in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Dry leaves in a warm, dark place or use a dehydrator.
Uses for lemon myrtle:
- Tea infusions
- Flavouring for desserts and savory dishes
- Essential oil production
- Natural air freshener
Common Problems and Solutions
- Yellowing leaves:
- Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage
- Solution: Improve drainage and adjust watering schedule
- Leaf drop:
- Cause: Cold stress or sudden temperature changes
- Solution: Protect from cold drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations
- Myrtle rust:
- Symptoms: Yellow powdery spores on new growth
- Solution: Remove affected parts and treat with an approved fungicide
- Scale insects:
- Symptoms: Small, brown, shell-like bumps on stems and leaves
- Solution: Remove with a soft brush and treat with horticultural oil
Propagation
Expand your lemon myrtle collection through propagation:
- Take 10-15cm semi-hardwood cuttings in spring or summer.
- Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
- Plant in a mix of perlite and peat moss.
- Keep warm and moist until roots develop (6-8 weeks).
Conclusion
Growing lemon myrtle in pots is a rewarding experience that brings the beauty and fragrance of this Australian native to any space. With proper care, your potted lemon myrtle can thrive for many years, providing you with aromatic leaves for culinary and therapeutic uses. Remember to adjust your care routine based on your specific climate and the plant’s needs, and enjoy the versatility and charm of this wonderful tree in your container garden.
My lemon myrtle tree is in a pot and the leaves appear to be a pale green rather a deep green. I’ve had it for about 3 years and it hasn’t yet flowered. I’ve been feeding it a couple of times a year with blood & bone. It stands at about 2 metres tall.
Do you have any tips for improving the tree please?
I have light green leaves as well – is there a solution?
Hi Solara
Based on your description, here are some tips to help improve your potted lemon myrtle tree:
Nutrient deficiency: The pale green leaves suggest a possible nutrient deficiency, likely nitrogen. While blood and bone is good, it may not be providing all the nutrients needed.
Switch to a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for native plants. Apply in spring and late summer.
Supplement with liquid seaweed fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season for micronutrients.
Soil pH: Lemon myrtle prefers slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5). Test the soil pH and adjust if necessary.
Repotting: After 3 years, the tree may have outgrown its current pot.
Consider repotting into a larger container with fresh potting mix.
Use a high-quality potting mix designed for native plants.
Sunlight: Ensure it’s getting enough light – at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Watering: Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Ensure the pot has good drainage.
Pruning: Light pruning can encourage bushier growth and potentially flowering.
Pinch out growing tips to promote branching.
Temperature: Protect from extreme cold or heat if necessary.
Patience with flowering: Lemon myrtles can take several years to flower, especially in pots. Providing optimal care should eventually encourage blooming.
By addressing these factors, you should see improvement in leaf color and overall health, which may lead to flowering in time.
Hi there
I am trying to grow a lemon scented tea tree from a cutting do you have any tips in how i can propagate this cutting any advice would be welcome as i have had success with gardenias but this is a new adventure thanks kind regards Dave
Hi David
To successfully propagate a lemon-scented tea tree (lemon myrtle) from a cutting, follow these steps and tips to increase your chances of success:
1. Timing for Cuttings
Best Time: The ideal time to take cuttings is in late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. However, some sources suggest that autumn can also work well, especially for semi-hardwood cuttings.
2. Selecting the Right Cutting
Choose Healthy Growth: Select a healthy stem that is about 10-15 cm long. Look for a non-flowering stem with several leaves.
Cut Below a Node: Make your cut just below a leaf node (the point where leaves attach to the stem), as this is where roots are more likely to form.
3. Preparing the Cutting
Remove Lower Leaves: Strip off the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting to prevent them from rotting in the soil.
Optional Hormone Treatment: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. This step can significantly improve your chances of success.
4. Choosing the Right Potting Mix
Use a Well-Draining Mix: Prepare a potting mix that retains some moisture but drains well. A mix of perlite and peat or a commercial seed-raising mix works well.
pH Level: Ensure the mix is slightly acidic, ideally between pH 5.5 and 6.5.
5. Planting the Cutting
Insert the Cutting: Make a hole in the potting mix with a pencil or your finger and gently insert the cutting about 3-5 cm deep.
Firm the Soil: Firm the soil around the cutting to eliminate air pockets.
6. Watering
Initial Watering: Water the cutting thoroughly after planting, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Humidity: To maintain humidity, cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or a plastic dome, making sure it doesn’t touch the leaves. This creates a mini-greenhouse effect.
7. Providing Ideal Conditions
Light: Place the pot in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the cutting.
Temperature: Lemon myrtle prefers temperatures between 20-25°C for optimal rooting.
8. Monitoring and Care
Check Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Remove the plastic cover periodically to allow air circulation and prevent mold.
Root Development: After about 4-8 weeks, gently tug on the cutting to check for resistance, which indicates root development.
9. Transplanting
When to Transplant: Once the cutting has developed a strong root system (typically after 2-3 months), it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
Acclimatization: Gradually acclimate the new plant to outdoor conditions by placing it outside for a few hours each day, increasing the time over a week.
10. Common Challenges
Low Success Rate: Lemon myrtle can be notoriously difficult to propagate, with a low success rate for cuttings. Be prepared to take multiple cuttings to increase your chances.
Pests and Diseases: Monitor for pests like aphids or fungal diseases, especially during the rooting process.
Remember to be patient and persistent, as propagation may take time and practice. Good luck with your new gardening adventure!
I have a lemon myrtle in a pot which has quite a big rust problem. Where do I get the fungicide from? I live in Geelong, Victoria. I love my lemon myrtle tea every morning.
Hi Val
To address the rust problem affecting your lemon myrtle tree, you can obtain fungicides from various sources in Geelong, Victoria. Here are some steps and recommendations for managing myrtle rust effectively:
1. Identify the Right Fungicide
For controlling myrtle rust, consider using OCP eco-fungicide, which has emergency permit approval for treating this specific issue. It’s advisable to combine it with OCP eco-oil to improve adherence and effectiveness. Other fungicides that may be effective include those containing triadimenol or tebuconazole, which are known to help manage myrtle rust.
2. Where to Buy Fungicides
You can purchase fungicides at local garden centers, nurseries, or agricultural supply stores. Here are some specific options:
Local Nurseries: Check with nearby nurseries or garden supply stores in Geelong, as they often carry specialized products for local plant issues.
Hardware Stores: Larger hardware chains may also stock fungicides suitable for treating myrtle rust.
Online Retailers: Websites like Bulleen Art & Garden or Eco Organic Garden may offer suitable products that can be delivered to your location.
3. Application Tips
Remove Infected Foliage: Before applying fungicide, remove any heavily infected leaves to reduce the spread of spores.
Follow Instructions: Always read the label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and safety precautions.
Reapply as Needed: For best results, you may need to reapply the fungicide every week or as directed, especially after rain.
4. Preventive Measures
Good Hygiene Practices: Clean gardening tools and equipment after working with infected plants to prevent spreading the spores.
Monitor Plant Health: Keep an eye on your lemon myrtle for any signs of new infections and address them promptly.
Hopefully this will help manage the rust problem on your lemon myrtle tree, allowing you to continue enjoying your morning lemon myrtle tea.
Hello
I have had my tree 4.5 years and it still hasn’t flowered! It is about 5 m tall. Located in tropical environment. Any advice?
Hi Mikayla
Lemon myrtle trees typically start to flower between 3 to 4 years of age, but some may take longer, especially if they are not in optimal conditions. Since your tree is 4.5 years old, it may just need a bit more time to mature and start flowering. Some other tips
1. Environmental Conditions
If your tree is in a pot, ensure that it is not root-bound. If the roots are circling the pot, it may be time to repot into a larger container with fresh potting mix. This can help the tree access more nutrients and water.
2. Sunlight Requirements
Ensure that your lemon myrtle is receiving adequate sunlight. These trees thrive in full sun to partial shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If your tree is in a location that is too shady, consider relocating it to a sunnier spot.
3. Humidity and Temperature
Lemon myrtle prefers a warm and humid environment. Since you are in a tropical climate, ensure that the tree is not exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations. Maintaining consistent warmth can help promote flowering.
4. Watering Practices
Watering is crucial for the health of your lemon myrtle. While they are relatively drought-tolerant once established, they still need regular watering, especially in hot weather. Ensure the soil is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
5. Fertilization
While you have been using blood and bone fertilizer, it may be beneficial to switch to a balanced slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for native plants. Look for a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content, as phosphorus promotes flowering. Apply fertilizer in spring and again in late summer.
6. Pruning
Regular pruning can encourage bushier growth and potentially stimulate flowering. Lightly prune the tree after flowering (if it does bloom) or in late winter to promote new growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches to improve overall health.
7. Check for Pests and Diseases
Pests and diseases can stress the plant and hinder blooming. Regularly inspect your tree for signs of pests like aphids or spider mites. If you notice any infestations, treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, ensure that your tree is not affected by myrtle rust, which can cause leaf discoloration and stress.
8. Soil Quality
Ensure that the soil is well-draining and enriched with organic matter. Lemon myrtle prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5 to 6.5). If the soil is too compacted or lacks nutrients, consider repotting or amending the soil with compost.
Remember that patience is key, as some trees may take longer to bloom than others. With the right care, you should eventually see beautiful flowers on your lemon myrtle tree.
I see the website doesn’t answer questions or even sell the product.
If you live in Sydney and want to buy one I bought my lemon myrtle from Randwick Council’s Wholesale Nursery in Kensington.
I repotted my lemon Myrtle and it was fine for about a week but now it is looking very sad the leaves are all droopy like it’s not drawing up water can you help
Hi Paula
If your lemon myrtle tree has become droopy and sad after repotting, there are several potential causes and solutions to consider. Here’s how to help revive your plant:
1. Transplant Shock
After repotting, it’s common for plants to experience transplant shock, which can cause drooping leaves. This is a temporary condition as the plant adjusts to its new environment.
Solution:
Give the tree some time to acclimate. Ensure it is in a stable environment with consistent temperatures and humidity.
2. Watering Issues
Droopy leaves can indicate either overwatering or underwatering. Since you just repotted, the soil may be too wet or too dry.
Check Soil Moisture:
Overwatering: If the soil feels soggy and waterlogged, this can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has good drainage and consider letting it dry out a bit.
Underwatering: If the soil is dry several inches down, the plant may need more water. Water the tree thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
3. Soil Quality
Lemon myrtle prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. If the new potting mix is too compact or heavy, it may hinder root growth and water absorption.
Solution:
Ensure you’re using a high-quality potting mix designed for native plants, which typically includes perlite or sand for improved drainage.
4. Light Conditions
Lemon myrtle thrives in full sun but may need some protection from harsh afternoon sun, especially after being repotted.
Solution:
Place the pot in a location where it receives bright, indirect sunlight initially, then gradually reintroduce it to full sun over a week or two.
5. Nutrient Deficiency
If the tree has not been fertilized adequately after repotting, it may lack essential nutrients, leading to poor health.
Solution:
Use a slow-release fertilizer formulated for native plants. Apply it according to the package instructions to support recovery.
6. Pest Issues
Check for signs of pests, such as aphids or spider mites, which can stress the plant and cause drooping leaves.
Solution:
Inspect the leaves and stems for pests. If found, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
7. Temperature and Humidity
Lemon myrtle prefers warm and humid conditions. If the tree is exposed to drafts or sudden temperature changes, it may react negatively.
Solution:
Keep the plant in a stable environment, away from drafts, heaters, or air conditioning vents.
Try these and monitor the plant closely over the next few weeks, and with proper care, it should bounce back and thrive.