When a eucalyptus dries up, some owners immediately think about cutting it back. Because they want to see fresh green sprouting quickly. The chances of this happening may be good. But one thing must not be left out: research into the causes! Otherwise a new cycle of drying and cutting begins.
Pruning is allowed
If your eucalyptus has dried up, you can cut it back. Because the dried leaves never become green or silvery again. It is possible that some of the branches have already dried out, so cutting them is mandatory anyway. This not only solves an optical problem, but also stimulates the plant to grow again. Eucalyptus is considered to be very tolerant of pruning and not only sprouts quickly after pruning, but often grows more vigorously than before.
Tip:
If the eucalyptus has a few dry leaves and you are not yet considering pruning, at least remove these dry specimens as soon as possible. Otherwise they will fall to the ground at some point and can encourage mold after watering.
The ideal time for pruning
The eucalyptus originally comes from Australia and other nearby islands. It is used to warmth there, which it also gets all year round as a houseplant in this country. If such a eucalyptus has dried out, you can cut it back at any time of the year. It doesn't make sense to wait long, because recovery should begin quickly. If a eucalyptus is grown outside, it is better to wait until spring to make major cuts. Then its growth power is activated and, in connection with warmer days, it quickly shows new growth.
Tip:
You can also remove isolated dried leaves and shoots outdoors from time to time.
Pruning instructions
- Select cutting tool that suits the thickness of the branches.
- Check whether the blades are well sharpened. Sand them if necessary.
- Clean and disinfect the cutting tool.
- Cut back shoot by shoot to the desired height until all dried shoots are removed.
- Examine the “new” crown of the plant from all sides.
- Then also shorten he althy branches if it makes sense for a harmonious, balanced look of the crown.
Do not cut roots
The reduction of shoots above ground should not be continued at the roots. No matter how much of your eucalyptus you prune, leave the roots untouched.
Causal research
The eucalyptus is evergreen, so there must be a cause for dried leaves that must be found and eliminated! Otherwise, it is only a matter of time before the problem occurs again. Only if a eucalyptus spends the winter outside will it grow dry leaves and shed them to reduce evaporation. This can be accepted as a natural reaction that is solved with spring pruning. In all other cases, check whether the following is present:
- Water shortage
- Waterlogging
- location too dark
- Nutrient Deficiency
- Root problems (pests/small pot)
Note:
Waterlogging not only causes the leaves to dry out, but also causes the roots to rot. In such a case, pruning will have little success. The entire plant usually dies.
Optimize living conditions
After the cause research has been completed and, if necessary, the pruning has already taken place, the final step should be to optimize the eucalyptus' inconsistent living conditions.
- place bright and sunny, without direct midday sun
- Use a plant lamp in winter
- water constantly, often and in smaller amounts
- the sunnier and drier it is, the more
- at least Fertilize once a week, in winter every three weeks
- repot regularly
- always create a drainage layer
Frequently asked questions
What is the generally right time to cut a eucalyptus?
As part of normal care, eucalyptus should always be cut in spring. This is the time that best promotes new growth, as it is followed by many warm, bright months.
Are the dried leaves still usable?
The dried leaves can be used to prepare an aromatic tea, which also relieves cold symptoms. After picking the leaves from the shoots, let them air dry briefly so that they lose any remaining moisture. Afterwards you can store them well and use them little by little.
How can I ensure even moisture in the eucalyptus in the pot?
In addition to watering as needed, repotting the eucalyptus in expanded clay can also help. It stores water and releases it evenly.
