How to grow Leptospermum scoparium? Detailed guide to cultivation methods and precautions
The leaves of the manuka are like pine needles and the flowers are like red plum blossoms; because its double flowers resemble peonies, it is also called "pine peony." Its flowers are not large, but they are beautiful and have ornamental value as well as certain medicinal value. Below, the editor introduces the cultivation methods and precautions for Leptospermum scoparium. I hope everyone enjoys it.
Cultivation methods for Leptospermum scoparium
Soil
Leptospermum scoparium does not have strict soil requirements, but it grows better in humus-rich, loose and fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
Watering
Leptospermum scoparium likes a humid environment and is also drought-tolerant. Under normal circumstances, just keep the soil moist, and pay attention to drainage during the rainy season to avoid water accumulation in the soil.
Temperature
Songhongmei likes a cool, humid, and sunny environment. The suitable growth temperature is 18°C—25°C, and the winter temperature should be kept above -1°C.
Fertilizing
During the growth period of Songhong plum, apply decomposed dilute liquid fertilizer once every 1 to 2 months.
Lighting
Leptospermum scoparium is afraid of high temperatures and direct sunlight, so in addition to needing to be placed in a shade shed, under tree shade, or in a cool, ventilated place in summer, it should be given sufficient sunlight in other seasons.
Precautions for growing Leptospermum scoparium
Control winter moisture
Pay attention to the frequency of watering in winter, keep the soil slightly moist and dry, and do not let it be too wet.
Winter insulation
Winter insulation is needed; it can be planted on the south side of a building to protect the microclimate.
When choosing terrain, it is recommended to use high slopes and high positions for drainage. In the north, it is better to choose indoor pot cultivation for winter protection.
Control soil pH
When the soil is alkaline, the solution is modified with a 5% ferrous sulfate solution, and the pH value is preferably 6.5°C. 7.0.
Prune in time
Every year, carry out careful pruning after flowering, to achieve the purpose of dwarfing the crown, maintaining a beautiful tree shape, and promoting the plant to sprout new flowering branches.
When pruning, note that except for some branches that affect the plant's form, branches can be completely cut off, while other branches should not be cut off entirely. Usually, half or two-thirds can be cut.
The value of Leptospermum scoparium
The ornamental value of Leptospermum scoparium
Leptospermum scoparium is one of the newly introduced flower varieties in recent years. Although the flowers of Leptospermum scoparium are not large, they are lush and abundant. When they bloom, the small flowers on the tree are somewhat bright and beautiful, giving people the feeling of a full bloom of fresh flowers.
Its flowering period is very long. It can bloom from early winter to early summer in the north. It can also bloom for 4 months in the south. In addition to potted plants, Leptospermum scoparium can also be used as garden shrubs and cut flowers.
Its flowering period is between New Year's Day and the Spring Festival, and it can be displayed indoors as an annual flower to add a festive atmosphere to the holiday.
The medicinal value of Leptospermum scoparium
Leptospermum scoparium can extract essential oil, which has strong sterilizing functions, such as antiviral and antifungal. It can be used to treat various respiratory diseases. Because of its fragrant odor, it is often used in aromatherapy abroad to treat various diseases.
The essence of Leptospermum scoparium is very special, very mild and sweet. It has the characteristics of tea tree oil, is mild, strongly antibacterial, and can be used as a preservative, astringent, bactericide, hurricane, sedative, tincture, insect repellent (internal), tonic, etc.
Leptospermum scoparium essential oil has sterilizing and bactericidal functions. It is a disinfectant suitable for the skin. It can treat skin diseases such as cuts, spots, burns, and ulcers. It can promote surface peeling and restore the original state. It has a good cleaning effect on persistent wounds. Its effects and therapeutic effects are also beneficial for treating acne.
Precautions for the medicinal use of Leptospermum scoparium
Although Songhong plum oil does not irritate the skin and mucous membranes, if applied directly to the skin it can cause dryness. Therefore, it is better not to apply it directly to the skin.
Usually, it is preferable to use essential oil with a concentration ratio of 3% or lower.