Eucalyptus

Advice

1. Light: Eucalyptus prefers direct sunlight. Place it in a location where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

2. Watering: Although Eucalyptus is drought tolerant, be sure to water well when the substrate is dry to an inch below the surface. Avoid waterlogging.

3. Substrate: Use a well-drained, light substrate to prevent over-watering problems. Add perlite or sand to improve aeration.

4. Humidity: Eucalyptus prefers moderate humidity levels. Sprinkle water around the plant or place a dish of water nearby to increase humidity.

5. Temperature: Most varieties of Eucalyptus prefer warm climates. Protect the plant from cold draughts and extremely low temperatures.

6. Fertilisation: Feed with a balanced fertiliser during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow product recommendations to avoid over-fertilisation.

7. Pruning: Prune regularly to shape the plant and promote more compact growth. Remove dead or diseased branches.

Signs of weakness

1. Change in leaf colour: This may indicate problems with watering, either too much or too little. In addition, some eucalyptus species may show different coloured leaves depending on their age.

2. Leaf drop: May be caused by inadequate moisture conditions, sudden changes in the environment or pests.

3. Leaf yellowing: May be due to lack of nutrients, inadequate substrate or exposure to cold draughts.

4. Loss of fragrance: Many varieties of Eucalyptus are valued for their distinctive fragrance. If they lose their characteristic scent, it may be a sign of stress.