Lemon Myrtle is a plant that does not only serve as a decoration but can be also used as an insect repellent. Its creamy flowers that bloom during summer are really attractive especially when the plant is grown in garden pots. Its eye-catching flowers do not only add attraction to the garden, but are also aromatic. You may also know this as Lemon Myrtle Tree, Sweet Verbena Myrtle, or Lemon Scented Myrtle.
Lemon Myrtle can grow on any type of soil, even on sandy soil, but usually grows best when the soil is rich and well fertilised. It can propagate by seed, rooted cuttings or even tip cuttings. Rooted cuttings are best if the plant will be used as ornamentals or for commercial purposes; tip cuttings are best for artificial propagation and it is recommended that the plant is placed in glasshouses.
Lemon myrtle will not only enhance the beauty of the garden when grown in containers but will also benefit the growers since it has many uses. It is a culinary delight and can also be used in perfumes and may serve as an antimicrobial.
Preparation and Planting
- Prepare the Lemon Myrtle.
Remember: Tip cuttings from a fully grown tree are best when propagating it in a container. Cut off the main bush of about 15cm long, with this, you can have a more extensive root system to hold more water and nutrients. Then cut the piece of stem below the leaf node and strip the foliage from the bottom of the cutting.
- The container should be large enough like a super tube which is 70mm x 160mm sq. deep since Lemon myrtle can grow from small to medium.
- The soil should be well-drained, well-mulched and well-composted. Though it can grow slow in sandy condition, it is best to have rich soil (acid to neutral) to get the best results.
- Put the soil in the container and make a hole, big enough for the circumference of the stem.
- Put the cutting into the soil; do not push the cutting too much, it might damage the plant.
- Water the plant regularly. When the plant grows, it is also important to maintain its shape.
Maintenance
Lemon Myrtle can tolerate full sun when it matures but it needs to be put in a shady place when it is still growing. It can be prone to myrtle rust appearing as yellow spots on leaves. In order to control it, apply fungicides according to APVMA permits or you can also try tradimenol and azoxystrobin.
