Myrtle flower: photo of a houseplant and care for it. Secrets of home care for the evergreen "Myrtle Communis

Watering

Myrtle needs to be watered regularly.

Myrtle (myrtle tree)

Since the plant has a subtropical origin, it loves moisture, therefore, in addition to constant watering, it requires daily spraying with water. If the myrtle does not receive enough water, it will begin to dry out and turn yellow.

Lighting

Temperature and Humidity

top dressing

Myrtle - transplant - photo

Transfer

Myrtle grows slowly, so don't repot it too often. It is better to do this once a year, increasing the size of the pot.

Myrtle breeding - photo

reproduction

Bloom

indoor flowers myrtle - photo

In leaf axils singly;
Or collected in a brush.

Tree diseases and pests

Why is myrtle not growing?

Lack of flowering

wilting leaves

Myrtle often crumbles after purchase. This is due to the fact that he was kept in more suitable greenhouse conditions, and adaptation to the room is very stressful for him. In this case, it makes sense to spray with succinic acid or Epin, place the plant under a bag, ventilate daily, make sure that from excess moisture mold did not form, put in a place with bright diffused light.

But if problems with the root started, then the matter is more serious. Therefore, it is important how long you have myrtle.

Plant care:

Myrtle loves bright diffused light, tolerates a certain amount of direct sunlight. Suitable for growing near western and eastern windows. At the windows of the south direction in the summer, it is necessary to provide the plant with protection from the midday sun. It can grow on a north window, but flowering will be less plentiful. In winter, myrtle is placed in the most illuminated places.

In summer, the myrtle can be exposed outdoors, to a place where protection from the direct midday sun is provided. The plant should be accustomed to a new level of illumination gradually. Some flower growers bury a pot of myrtle directly into the ground to harden the plant for the summer.

Myrtle loves coolness, in spring and summer it needs moderate or slightly below moderate temperatures (18-20°C). During the winter months, the myrtle tree is best kept at 5°C and no higher than 8-10°C. At higher than optimal winter temperatures, the plant may shed its leaves.

Myrtle needs an influx of fresh air.

Myrtle is watered from spring to autumn regularly and plentifully (as the top layer of the substrate dries up), in winter it is limited, with soft settled water. In no case should even a short-term drying of the soil be allowed.

Myrtle breeding at home

If, nevertheless, the substrate is dry, apply watering by immersing the pot in a container of water. At the same time, care must be taken that the water does not stagnate in the pan.

You should carefully monitor the humidity of the air. Although under natural myrtle conditions the air humidity rarely exceeds 60%, in rooms with central heating it is usually less than half. From spring to autumn, the plant should be sprayed regularly. For spraying, use only soft settled or filtered water. In winter, when kept cool, the plant is not sprayed.

From spring to autumn, myrtle is fertilized weekly with flower fertilizer.

Myrtle has a pronounced dormant period. Depending on the position in the room, the myrtle is at rest from 3 (on the north window) to 1.5 (on the south) months.

My "Dutch" is now starting to bloom

Illumination: Light-loving, shading is needed only in the summer afternoon.

Watering regimen: Abundant during the growth period, rare in winter, especially if the plant is kept cool.

Humidity: Requires frequent spraying, especially in warm rooms.

In the summer, it is better to place it in fresh air (in the garden or on the balcony).

Temperature regime: In summer the temperature should be moderate, in winter cool 8-10°C.

Soil: Recommended soil mix: 2-3 parts of sod, 1 part of peat land, 1 part of humus, 1 part of sand. During the growth period, it needs top dressing once every 2 weeks with complex fertilizers ("Giant", Rainbow, "Ideal", etc.) For mature trees, humus can be applied once a summer.

Breeding: Stem cuttings, seeds.

Transplantation: Young plants are transplanted annually, adults older than three years are transplanted after two years, but replaced annually upper layer earth.

Pests: affected by scale insects (brown plaques appear on leaves and stems, leaving sticky secretions), spider mites (in dry air, leaves and stems are covered with cobwebs).

The plant can be helped by treatment with soapy water, warm washing and spraying with actellik (1-2 ml per liter of water).

Once upon a time, common myrtle was very popular in room culture, as the conditions of detention ensured its good development and regular flowering. With the advent of central heating in homes, the popularity of myrtle has decreased significantly, because this Mediterranean species needs very light and cool (about +5 degrees) content for normal growth and development in winter.

- here is a video on the topic, but here is an article on care -.

Myrtle care at home

Myrtle is an unusual plant from the Myrtle family. The name means "incense". Myrtle prefers to grow in subtropical conditions, mainly in the Mediterranean countries.

The name of the plant was due to the fact that its leaves and flowers contain essential oils with a pleasant and soothing aroma. Myrtle looks like a small tree with elongated and pointed leaves. The petioles of the leaves are short and the color is bright green.

myrtle home care - photo

Watering

Myrtle needs to be watered regularly. Since the plant has a subtropical origin, it loves moisture, therefore, in addition to constant watering, it requires daily spraying with water. If the myrtle does not receive enough water, it will begin to dry out and turn yellow.

Like other flowers, myrtle is best watered and sprayed with settled water. In winter, you need to slightly reduce watering to once a week. Spraying remains only if the room is warm.

Lighting

This plant is best placed on the south side, as it will be less comfortable on other sides, and may not bloom. When the sun's rays shine intensely, it is better to close the plant with a curtain so that it does not get burned.

Temperature and Humidity

The most favorable temperature for myrtle is about 22-24 degrees. The periodic presence on the balcony or in the garden will positively affect the plant.

If it is not possible to take out the plant, then it is worth ventilating the room. In winter, myrtle will be more comfortable at temperatures up to 10 degrees, but the humidity level should be lower than in summer.

top dressing

This plant can be fertilized with complex fertilizers, which are specifically for flowering houseplants. In summer, top dressing should be added once a week, and in winter once a month.

Myrtle - transplant - photo

Transfer

Myrtle grows slowly, so don't repot it too often.

Myrtle - home care, transplantation and reproduction

It is better to do this once a year, increasing the size of the pot.

An already grown plant can live without a transplant for three to four years. The optimal time for transplanting myrtle is the winter season, since during this period the tree is at rest.

Transplantation should begin by not watering the plant for several days, so that it is easier to extract. The pot turns over and the tree will easily slip out, so it must be held. If you treat the roots with a stimulant, then it will be easier for him to take root.

In a new pot, drainage is first done, and then it is filled with expanded clay and a substrate is prepared, it will need to be poured to the bottom. Then the plant itself is installed and covered with a substrate. After the transplant is completed, the tree must be watered abundantly and taken to a dark place.

Myrtle breeding - photo

reproduction

Myrtle can be propagated in two ways:

With the cutting method, it is important that the soil temperature reaches 25 degrees. Reproduction is realized by apical cuttings. Its length should be 7-9 cm, if you choose a smaller cutting, then you can not cut it from a flowering shoot.

The leaves are picked and the cut is processed. After that, the cutting must be planted preferably in a mixture of sand and peat, this is the most favorable environment for the plant. From above, the cuttings must be covered with a film. The growth process at room temperature is faster.

The second method of propagation using seeds. Unlike cuttings, seeds grow for a long time. For this method of cultivation, the same substrate is used with the addition of soil, all this is covered with a film.

In order for the seeds to germinate, they need diffused light and the temperature must be at the level of 21 degrees. Propagating in this way, the myrtle needs to form a crown; for this, you will need to pinch the sprout at the right height. Myrtle will bloom no earlier than in the second or third year.

Bloom

indoor flowers myrtle - photo

In order for the plant to bloom, it cannot be cut in spring time year, it is best to do this when flowering is completely over.

Myrtle blooms from the beginning or middle of summer (June-July). In order for the flowers to be beautiful, certain conditions must be observed during this period. The tree must receive proper care and a constant supply of fresh myrtle air.

If the plant is not properly and timely cared for, then it will develop diseases, in such conditions it will not bloom. Another reason for the lack of flowers may be stagnant air in the room.

Myrtle flower arrangement:

In leaf axils singly;
Or collected in a brush.

Petals on a flower, as a rule, are either four or six. Since the plant receives more light from above, the flowers are mainly located there.

Tree diseases and pests

There are no special diseases in this plant, but still sometimes they occur. If the soil has poor drainage, myrtle may develop root rot. Some problems with the tree may arise due to improper care or non-compliance with certain important points.

The reason is insufficient lighting, incorrect proportions of watering. Myrtle is a plant that requires constant care, so it is extremely important to follow all the conditions for caring for it.

The myrtle tree is susceptible to danger from insects. Can harm the plant the following insects: thrips, scale insects, spider mites, aphid. Therefore, the myrtle must be carefully monitored. If signs of damage to the myrtle appear, it is necessary to carefully examine it for the presence of insects. Most often, pests affect old plants.

myrtle at home - photo

Those housewives who grow this plant have common questions. We'll take a look at the most frequently asked questions.

Why is myrtle not growing? There can be many reasons for the lack of growth in a tree. First of all, do not forget that this plant, in principle, grows slowly. You need to try to take good care of him and feed him as needed.

Lack of flowering, may be caused by spring pruning, it will not bloom until next year. Another common cause is a poorly ventilated area.

wilting leaves may be due to several reasons. High temperatures in winter, when the tree is dormant. Violation of the conditions for watering the plant, spraying or feeding. The leaves may wither if water has stagnated in the tree or, on the contrary, the earth has dried up. If the leaves of the myrtle began to wither, then it is necessary to change the care of it.

The leaves of this plant contain poisonous substances that can make a person feel unwell.

When choosing this plant, it is important to understand that it requires strict adherence to the rules for caring for it. Do not deviate from proper watering, forget to spray or periodically fertilize the myrtle. Also, the tree needs at least a rare transplant. If you follow all the rules of care, then the myrtle will delight you with its beauty.

Video: Caring for myrtle at home

Pot dimensions for transplanting myrtle

How you choose the right pot for planting the cutting depends on its health, growth rate and appearance. Many tend to take pots with a large margin, but if the pot is large, after watering the earth will dry for a very long time, as a result, a salt effusion forms on the surface - a whitish or red coating of calcium and magnesium salts. The acidity of the soil in this case shifts to the alkaline side, in such an environment some nutrients are poorly absorbed and there is a high probability of root rotting. In a pot that is too small, especially when planting in pure peat, on the contrary, the root system of the plant can be very dry.

Here is an example, planting a rooted branch (stem thickness initially 2 mm), which has long grown, and the height has reached 75 cm from the ground.

Myrtle grew in a glass (200 g) for about two years. The thickness of the trunk at the root neck reached 6 mm. The earthen ball is almost completely mastered by the roots. If the roots of your cutting have grown only in the lower part, have formed a "beard", or crawled out of the drainage holes, and the upper part of the pot has not been mastered by the roots, it makes sense when transplanting to cut off those roots that stick out of the holes of the pot, or those that curled on spiral bottom, displacing all the soil. After that, you need to transplant the young myrtle again into the old pot. It can be transplanted into a new one only when the roots fill the entire space of the pot.

Myrtle formation

The formation of a myrtle tree occurs constantly. Trimming the ends of the shoots can be carried out repeatedly during the spring-summer season. You can grow a myrtle tree in a completely free style, shaggy bush. You can form a stem or another style. But first you need to imagine the image you want to strive for.

A myrtle tree blooming with pink buds (on the right in the photo, Pavel Karpenkov) is so beautiful not because of extreme unpretentiousness, but because it is grown in ideal conditions for it: it stands in an area where the illumination is close to sunny, the humidity is under 90% and the temperature is 24 °C It is watered every 2-3 days (does not dry out and is not flooded). Planted in soil with a mixture of akadama and sand and some soil for seedlings. Drainage is high - myrtles do not like waterlogging in the roots. Spray it every day.

Important: when wintering in cool and, especially cold conditions, spraying is not required, and watering is scarce.

With the help of a wire, you can pull the branches in the right direction, they are quite plastic even in adulthood. But old branches covered with brown bark can be bent gradually, smoothly, over several months.

Please note that while the myrtle tree is gaining thickness of the trunk, it does not need to be planted in a bonsai pot, the pot space is needed for the plant to disperse the trunk.

From personal experience, Borya: My myrtle grows on the northwestern window, but it will not be possible to form a spherical crown without additional lighting. I use this technique: as the branches lengthen, I tilt the largest of them to the sides almost to a horizontal position, and fix them with wire. Then, along the entire length of the branch, new shoots begin to appear from sleeping buds (before that they were in the shade), and the entire branch turns out to be densely leafy.

The size of the pot should correspond to the size of the root system and increase as the earthen clod is braided. It all depends on how many roots the myrtle has. In my opinion, it is better to take a cramped dish than a spacious one, since in the second case, part of the earth may turn sour and become unusable even before the roots have time to penetrate into it.

I prefer to plant myrtles in a mixture of some peat soil with coarse sand, in a ratio of 1: 1. Of the purchased ones, in my opinion, you can use the 'Cactus' mixture, as the most porous and suitable for most plants.

What needs to be done to give the myrtle the appearance of a tree from a cutting

From personal experience, Borya: You need to choose the largest, central, and, most importantly, the branch of the bush you like best and cut off all the rest. It is convenient to do this with small scissors for cutting nails. Leaves need to be removed and side shoots from below to the height of the proposed trunk. This will result in a smooth trunk, which will slowly thicken.

Since, when growing in a 'bush', the branches touch and, as it were, 'support' each other a little, then, 'left alone', this branch may for some reason be bent (from accidental grazing, or as a result of tilting towards the light, for example ). Therefore, a support in the form of a peg stuck nearby is desirable for her.

As a result, the growth of shoots on the upper leafy part begins. Those shoots that do not appear on the 'crown', but on the stem, must be removed (otherwise you will get a bush again). When the stem reaches a thickness of about 0.5 cm, the support can be removed.

Bamboo skewers (3-4 mm thick and about 30 cm long) are very suitable for the role of sticks for props. The peg should be located, in relation to the plant, from the side of the room or on the side, so as not to obscure.

Myrtle - bonsai

Many people want to have a miniature myrtle tree in a bowl, but before the myrtle trunk gains thickness (from 1.5 cm or more), there is even no question of transplanting into bonsai trees. And all the plant material that is being worked on is called potensai.

An example of such work from Yuri Alexandrovich Markin:

Bonsai style Sokan

And this is Potensai - the style of Sokan "Twin Trunks". 2-3-year-old plants grown from rooted cuttings are used. Rearranged from wintering to prepare for the spring growing season - pruning and shaping to suit bonsai styles. The skeleton and stems of the first potensai are shaped in the Sokan style with ligatures and stretch marks. The height of the workpiece in the final form - 28 cm:

Formation work continues. Myrtle has its own subtleties, says Yuri Alexandrovich - fragile wood and loose bark, although, when broken, it grows together remarkably.

Before all the manipulations, I take a long shower to soak the tissues.

Myrtle - cultivation, care, transplantation and reproduction

When bending vertical and rather plump branches at an angle of 90 °, I sort of knead the near-stem area between my fingers - I crush it like a joint on a finger.

Next, I begin to apply a ligature to the trunk and wind up the wire on the branch to be bent. Then, the branch, together with the wire wrapped in two turns, I begin to slowly bend. Under the branch, you can substitute a screwdriver and create an emphasis at the bend. After bending the branch by more than 90 °, I rewind the ligature with the branch fixed in the desired position.

Also, it is possible to perform a directed fracture, i.e. break a branch and wrap it around with raffia, and then apply a ligature (the main subtlety is not to break it completely when applying raffia and ligature, skill and a sensitive tactile sensation of the material are required).

You can apply another way to thick branches. Make a crescent cut under the branch, in the place of the intended bend, to the middle or 2/3 of the thickness of the branch. The cut is made in thin sections with adjustment (bending and refining the position of the branch in the final form), if not enough, then another thin fragment is removed from both sides (such as slices).

Further according to the scheme - winding with raffia and applying a ligature. If it is difficult to bend a copper wire in insulation with a cross section of 2.5 mm, then you can apply two wires of 1.5 mm each or several wires of an even smaller cross section folded together - an example is the photo above (lower left corner), the coil of wire in the photo with myrtle. This wire can be used for both ligatures and stretch marks.

Bonsai Ikadabuki style

Another example of myrtle bonsai formation in the Ikadabuki style from Gennady Boronin (Genn). The author also modestly calls it only an attempt at formation: "2 years trying to become a bonsai." The height of the myrtle tree is 27-30 cm.

All the details and photos in the topic I'm trying to grow bonsai.

Photographs and materials used: Yu. A. Markin (YUM), Borya, Natali, barsuchok, Alexander, P. Karpenkov (beomaster), G. Boronin (Genn).

Elena Bryantseva asked: “My husband bought a myrtle tree in the store. I transplanted at home, I water warm water, I spray - it dries anyway. So pity. Do not tell me what to do to restore the plant? You don't want to lose this beauty.
Indeed, the most serious problem you may encounter when growing myrtle, an evergreen shrub, is leaf fall. Most often and most likely the reason is low humidity.
To save a plant:
- It is necessary to isolate the plant from the battery with a transparent screen. The air from the window will now remain near the plant, and the dry warm

the air from the battery will rise up and will not harm your green pet.

- You can also use humidifiers in this case. Buy a humidifier and most plants will thank you.
- You can cover the plant with a plastic bag. This method is really good, the humidity under the bag is quite high. Some of my plants sit in a bag for the whole winter until the batteries are turned off.
- If you don’t put it under the bag and didn’t buy a humidifier, we spray, spray and spray again.

Well, now more about MIRT

Common myrtle is grown both in residential premises, winter gardens, greenhouses, and in offices. In our flower shops, mainly small-leaved myrtle is sold. Some flower lovers have large-leaved myrtle. Myrtle Boethica is quite rare. APPEARANCE Myrtle is an evergreen shrub known for over two thousand years.

Myrtle - how to grow a paradise tree on the windowsill

This is one of the oldest houseplants, and one of the most beautiful. Myrtle has small dark green oblong leathery leaves. They have a pleasant aroma. If you rub the leaf, the aroma will intensify. Myrtle blooms in summer. The flowers are white with long stamens. After flowering, if pollination has occurred (with the help of insects or artificially), the myrtle is covered with dark blue berries. LOCATION IN THE HOUSE The best room in the house for myrtle is the kitchen. It is also good to put the plant in the children's room. Myrtle is said to have anti-allergic and anti-cold properties. And this is extremely beneficial for children. He will take care of your child. Windows on the south, west and east sides are the most favorable for placing myrtle. There may not be enough light on the window on the north side. And it is essential for the flowering of the plant. Myrtle prefers not only bright, but also well-ventilated places. In summer, it is taken out into the fresh air, onto a balcony or garden. It is important to know that in dry and warm rooms, the leaves may fall off the plant. It is also useful to place the myrtle next to the opening window. Drafts are useful to him, because, thanks to the flow of air, substances that kill microbes are released from the myrtle. In winter, in a warm room, it is advisable to put the myrtle away from the batteries and spray more often. Moving the plant to a glazed balcony in winter is the best way out. CARE Lighting. Myrtle prefers bright sunlight. However, it is better to shade it from the scorching midday sun. Temperature. Myrtle can tolerate temperatures from 0°C to 40°C. In summer, the temperature should be at room temperature, in winter it should drop to 8 ° С -10 ° С. It is better to move the plant to the balcony in winter. Myrtle definitely needs high humidity. The plant responds well to frequent spraying of leaves. Myrtle can sometimes arrange a warm shower. Watering. In summer, abundant watering is necessary, in winter - moderate. Myrtle breeds apical cuttings summer. Their rooting usually occurs after a month or a month and a half. The myrtle is transplanted as needed. Young plants are transplanted every year, and adults - once every two years. The best time of year to transplant is spring and also summer. PESTS AND DISEASES Myrtle is quite resistant to pests. It is advisable to spray it occasionally for prevention. by special means that are sold in flower shops. In order for your green friend to please with his beauty for as long as possible, you need to properly care for him. But this may not be enough for him. He needs regular pruning, which is best done in the spring, before growth begins. You can shape the plant however you like. Pruning is very useful, it stimulates the formation of new shoots, and your bush becomes more magnificent and beautiful.

Plant myrtle (lat. Myrtus) belongs to the genus of evergreen woody plants of the Myrtle family, the flowers of which contain essential oil. The natural habitats of myrtle are the Mediterranean, the Azores and the north of the African continent. It is no coincidence that the name of the plant is consonant with the Greek word "myrrh", which means "balm, liquid incense", because it is as a cult attribute that myrtle essential oil has long been used in temples of various concessions. The legend tells that Adam, expelled from Eden, brought a myrtle flower with him to Earth as a memory of the lost paradise. Many myths, beliefs, traditions, rituals and signs are associated with this plant among different peoples. The myrtle tree has long been considered a symbol of glory, peace and hope. Our ancestors had myrtle flowers not only for cult, but also for medical and cosmetic purposes, and some preparations from myrtle are still popular today. But for plant lovers, blooming and fragrant myrtle is an object of admiration and a source of aesthetic pleasure, especially since home myrtle is undemanding to care for, and someone who knows how to care for myrtle will easily achieve the optimal shape for a plant that will decorate your home and help preserve To your health.

ROOM MYRTH - DESCRIPTION
Myrtle, according to various sources, numbering from forty to one hundred species, in its natural habitat can grow up to three meters in height, and indoor myrtle, under the most favorable conditions, reaches only a meter. Usually myrtle at home is a tree with a round crown, 30-60 cm tall. Small leathery, as if polished myrtle leaves are located on the shoots rarely alternately and oppositely on short petioles, they have an elongated shape, the tops of the leaves are pointed. Flowers, simple or double, either solitary or collected in a brush. The fruit is a nut or berry drupe. It is curious that myrtle plants include such valuable plants for mankind as tea tree, eucalyptus, clove tree.

MYRT FLOWER - GROWING FROM SEEDS
How to propagate myrtle seeds at home? At the beginning of spring, myrtle seeds are sown on the surface of a substrate consisting of equal parts of sand and peat, in a container 7-10 cm deep, sprinkled on top with a layer of the same substrate 3-5 mm thick and, covered with glass, kept at a temperature of about 20 ºC, ventilating and moistening the crops, as well as removing condensation from the glass. Seedlings appear in a week or two, and when the seedlings have 2-3 true leaves, they are dived into the same substrate in individual pots so that the root neck remains above the soil surface. A month after picking, seedlings are fed with nitrogen fertilizer of a weak consistency.

Myrtle: home care, photo of a houseplant, signs

However, amateur breeders should be aware that myrtle grown from seeds:

a) will bloom not earlier than in 4-5 years;
b) is unlikely to retain varietal characteristics.

In addition, the germination of myrtle seeds sharply decreases after a year of storage, and it is problematic to obtain them, since this will require artificial pollination of the plant.
CARE OF MYRTH AT HOME
HOW TO GROW MYRTH AT HOME.
Caring for myrtle at home includes watering, pruning and feeding the plant, as well as creating optimal or at least necessary conditions for it. Houseplant myrtle prefers southern, western and eastern window sills, indulgent to drafts, temperature extremes and direct sunlight. Moreover, if there is no sun, there will be no flowering of the myrtle. In summer myrtle prefers life on fresh air, in winter, the plant needs coolness - 5-10 degrees Celsius, and the best place for it would be a glazed unheated balcony.

water myrtle in the warm season, it is necessary abundantly and often, without waiting for the top layer to dry, but excess moisture must be drained from the pan so as not to provoke root rot. Insufficient or infrequent watering can cause the plant to shed its leaves. With the onset of cold weather, watering is reduced, but if the plant winters in a room with working heaters, it will have to be watered as plentifully as in summer. In addition, it will be necessary to spray the leaves of the plant with water at least once a day, since the myrtle needs high humidity, and you need to remember this in winter, if the temperature in the room with myrtle is above 15 ºC, and in summer. Water for water procedures and irrigation should be separated or passed through a filter.

Once a week or two from March to August, the myrtle needs to be fertilized with fertilizers. If you grow bonsai from myrtle or you are not interested in its flowering, then feed the plant with a complex fertilizer for ornamental foliage plants, but if you want to see myrtle bloom, then apply fertilizer for flowering plants.
Myrtle has a pronounced dormant period, the duration of which determines the location of the plant: if the myrtle hibernates in the cool or on the northern windowsill, then it can rest for up to three months, and if it is warm and in bright light, then only for a month and a half.

CUTTING MYRTH.
Caring for myrtle also involves giving its crown the desired shape. The formation of myrtle depends on what you grow it for. Many people like myrtle in the form of a standard tree with a neat compact crown, but there are people who do not care how the plant looks, as long as it “blooms and smells”. In any case, one should not get too carried away with pruning the lateral shoots of young plants or pinching them excessively. On the other hand, myrtle grows fast, regenerates easily, and you always have the option to change your plans for how it looks. The main thing is that the formation of the crown should be done in early spring or after flowering.

HOME MYRTH - TRANSFER.
Young plants are transplanted annually, adult myrtles - as needed, which is determined in this way: if the freshly watered soil dries out within a day, then it's time to increase the amount of substrate, and, therefore, a larger pot will be needed. The pot is chosen only a couple of centimeters in diameter wider than the previous one. It is better to transplant in the spring, using the method of transferring a plant from an old container to a new one, since it does not injure the root system.
REPRODUCTION OF MYRTH
If you want to propagate myrtle, cuttings are the best way to do this, because it allows you to preserve the species and varietal characteristics of the plant. Moreover, it is much more reliable way reproduction than seed, and plants from cuttings bloom faster than those from seeds - in three years. Therefore, if you want to grow a myrtle tree in your home, you do not need to buy seeds that quickly lose their ability to germinate, just do not hesitate to ask your friends for a stalk after a formative pruning. The best result is given by semi-woody cuttings of the current year. You can take cuttings from January to February, or in July, and it is better if they are from the lower or middle part of the crown. Remove the lower leaves from a segment of the shoot 8-10 cm long, and shorten the upper ones by a third, and the largest ones by half. Treat the lower cut with rootstock or heteroauxin and plant for rooting in a mixture of leafy soil (one part) and coarse sand (half part), or sphagnum and sand in the same proportions. It is better to take a low and wide container for rooting, and it is advisable to cover the stalk from above with a glass jar. Rooting occurs at a temperature of 17-20 ºC in a shady place. From time to time, the jar is removed for ventilation and so that the soil does not turn sour. Usually the roots grow within a month, and the rooted cutting is transplanted into a pot with a diameter of 7 cm in the same soil mixture. After a year, transplant it into a container with a diameter of 9 cm in the soil for an adult myrtle and take care of it like an adult plant.

PESTS AND DISEASES OF MYRTH
INSECTS AND DISEASES OF MYRTH.
Myrtle is harmed by mealybugs, whiteflies, scale insects, aphids, thrips and spider mites, which appear as a result of a chronic violation of the rules for keeping the plant. The first five pests are destroyed by four-time treatment of myrtle with actara or actellik within a month. It is advisable to wash spider mites and thrips in the shower before treatment with the same actellik. But rather than poison the plant with insecticides, it is better to prevent the invasion of insects by observing very simple rules for caring for it.

MYRTH DRY.
A frequently asked question from our readers: “What to do if the myrtle has dried up?” should sound differently: “What to do so that the myrtle does not dry out?” And the answer to this question is very simple: strictly observe the rules for keeping myrtle. If myrtle leaves dry up, then you have not taken into account some of the recommendations of plant care experts. Insufficient air humidity adversely affects the condition of the foliage, especially if in winter the myrtle is in a room with a temperature above 18 ºC, where heaters work, not only heating, but also drying up the air. Myrtle also dries out if you forget to water it. Remember the rules for caring for a plant and follow them strictly, because it is much easier to prevent the death of a plant by taking preventive measures than to resuscitate it later. Water and spray the myrtle regularly with settled water, keep it on a tray with wet pebbles, but so that the bottom of the pot does not stand in the water.

PROPERTIES OF MYRTH AND SIGNS
PROPERTIES OF MYRTH.
The leaves, young shoots and fruits of myrtle contain essential oil and active substances that have a high antibacterial effect. Soviet scientists have developed a medicinal preparation - myrtle tincture, which is prepared from the mature leaves of the plant. and experience traditional medicine, and modern Scientific research confirm that the use of myrtle in the treatment of such serious diseases as diabetes mellitus, pneumonia and chronic bronchitis is highly effective. Myrtle tincture successfully copes with antibiotic-resistant strains of tubercle bacillus and staphylococcal infection, as well as purulent otitis media and a heavy smoker's cough. In addition, the drug from the leaves of myrtle is a natural stimulant of important life processes, which increase working capacity and endurance to loads, it has no side effects and is prescribed even for children from one year of age. Doctors and botanists recommend keeping myrtle in bedrooms and nurseries because it makes the air in them cleaner and healthier. One plant is able to purify the air of bacteria in a room of 20 square meters. meters.

MIRT - SIGNS.
Myrtle has long been considered strong amulet. But the plant will fulfill this mission only under two conditions:

if it was planted by a woman - the mistress of the house;
if the owners of the plant are proud of their myrtle.

The signs of European peoples say: if myrtle grows in a house, there will be peace and love in it, but if the plant dies and is thrown away, happiness will leave this house along with the dead plant. Myrtle is not suitable for offices - he needs a family hearth.
But Muslims do not keep myrtle in their homes, believing that it dooms young boys and girls living in the house to loneliness.

TYPES OF MYRTH
MYRTH ORDINARY (MYRTUS COMMUNIS).
In home floriculture, common myrtle (Myrtus communis) is most often grown with a short branched trunk covered with exfoliating scales of red-brown bark. The leaves are green, oval-lanceolate, glossy, leathery, with a pleasant aroma. The flowers are white or pale pink with prominent stamens, the fruits are red-black berries. Blooms from June to August. Popular cultivars: "Tarentina" - a compact bush with smaller berries than the original form, but there are much more of them than ordinary myrtle; the variegated variety has a creamy-white pattern along the green leaves.

MYRTH LUSH (MYRTUS APICULATA).
Lush myrtle (Myrtus apiculata) is also interesting - a bush or tree with peeling brown bark, under which the trunk is creamy white. The leaves are dark green, elliptical, matte. White single flowers bloom in July-August, black-red fruits are edible.

MYRTUS CHEQUEN
- a tree with shiny green leaves with a wrinkled edge. This species is the most stable of myrtles.
MYRTUS RALFII (MYRTUS RALFII)
- upright shrub with flowers of a pinkish hue and red edible berries. It has a variegated variety with a white-cream border around the edge of the leaves.

Myrtle is a very beautiful and showy plant with fragrant leaves and flowers. The myrtle tree is not the most capricious specimen of the garden fauna, but at the same time it is quite demanding. Care and cultivation of myrtle at home will require a lot of attention and care, as only in caring hands will it reveal its full potential.

The entire above-ground part of the myrtle contains a large amount essential oil, which is applied in alternative medicine for the treatment of a wide range of diseases. Myrtle ordinary will become an ornament for many years and decades, not only in the house, but also on the balcony, terrace or garden.

The myrtle tree is one of the oldest cultivated plants. Thanks to different sources there is evidence that many centuries ago the myrtle plant was grown as an ornamental garden tree. Great importance gave the flower back in ancient Greece, where he personified innocence, youth and beauty.

Many beliefs and legends are associated with myrtle:

in ancient times it was an integral part of the festival in honor of Venus;
during the Renaissance served as a symbol of youth, marital fidelity and eternal love. Due to this, at present, many believe in the sign that the bride's wedding bouquet should contain a sprig of myrtle, as a sign of a future strong union;
there is a superstition that myrtle in the house is a guarantee of a good atmosphere, warm relationships, a friendly family;
according to legend, passing by a myrtle bush, you should pick a leaf or twig if you want to live long years and maintain good health and good spirits.

Evergreen myrtle is a tree or shrub from the Myrtle family with white fragrant flowers. Homeland of myrtle land of the Mediterranean zone (North Africa, Southern Europe).
Myrtle is a very slow growing plant, with an annual growth of no more than 10–15 cm.
Myrtle leaves are lanceolate, dark green, opposite, on short petioles. The leaf blades contain myrtle oil. If you look through the sheet at a bright light source, you can see small dots and stripes, they contain oil.

The myrtle flower is axillary, bisexual, has a pleasant smell, five white petals are fixed on a thin pedicel. Common myrtle flowers bloom in June-July. After flowering, edible round or ovoid fruits (berries) of dark or light color with a diameter of 5–8 mm are formed. One berry-fruit contains 10-15 seeds. In the natural environment, the flowers of the plant are pollinated by insects; indoors, the procedure is carried out independently using a brush or cotton swab. The fruits ripen in November-December.

AT landscape design Recently, standard plants have become popular. A myrtle stem is a way to raise shrubs, give the plant an unusual appearance with a bare, even trunk without a single branch and a lush crown at the top.

Myrtle is a medicinal flower, preparations based on it have a tonic, antiviral, stimulating and antibacterial effect. Like any medicine, myrtle can bring both benefit and harm. Currently, in pharmacies, you can buy a plant extract, which, in fact, is a natural antibiotic. Disinfecting and refreshing the air in the room, the flower carries positive energy, creating a favorable, healthy atmosphere at home. Myrtle-based medicinal preparations are used for the treatment and prevention of various diseases.

With caution, myrtle should be used by women during pregnancy and during breastfeeding, the elderly. A myrtle flower pot in the bedroom at the head of the bed can cause insomnia and severe headaches, as a result, it should be placed away from sleeping places.

Bloom

The myrtle tree is a flowering plant with white fluffy flowers. Myrtle flowering (photo above) is observed throughout the summer and until mid-autumn. Myrtle begins to bloom if the irrigation regime is observed, the place is chosen correctly and there is enough lighting. Probably, myrtle does not bloom due to frequent changes in the location of the flower. If it is constantly rearranged from place to place, the plant does not have time to adapt to changes in lighting. You should gradually rearrange the flower to a new place with brighter lighting.

Too low air humidity, poorly ventilated room - possible reasons the absence of the color of the myrtle tree. With a disease, the plant does not bloom, all its forces are spent on recovery and survival.

plant species

About 40 species are included in the genus myrtle, but only one is grown in room culture - ordinary myrtle. In its natural environment, the myrtle tree is found in North Africa, Western Asia, on the Caribbean islands, on the Mediterranean coast. Many varieties of myrtle are grown in botanical gardens, greenhouses, garden plots and at home. Varieties of myrtle differ in height, shape and color of the leaves, so Luma myrtle reaches 25 meters in height, and mini versions of the myrtle tree grow no higher than 60 cm.

Myrtle ordinary

The most popular is the common myrtle (Myrtus communis) or myrtle communis, also known as indoor myrtle. However widespread he did not receive due to low winter hardiness. Prefers shady places and diffused sunlight. In its natural environment, it can be found under the canopy of large trees, in bushes in the Azores, North Africa, and the lands of the Mediterranean zone. In nature, the plant grows up to 2–5 m, in room culture it does not exceed 40–60 cm, rarely up to 1 m.

The trunk is short with dark brown-red bark. Stems are faceted, bare, rounded. Glossy, smooth, lanceolate, leathery leaves up to 5 cm long and up to 2 cm wide, arranged oppositely one or three. Due to the presence of essential oil, leaf blades exude a delicate pleasant aroma. Single flowers, up to 2 cm in diameter, with five white, rarely pale pink petals, have a brighter and richer aroma than the leaves.

Flowering begins in June-July in the third year of life. Seeds - black-red berries ripen by the end of October.

The species calmly tolerates a short-term decrease in temperature to -10 ... -12 ° С, with a long stay in more low temperatures freezes. In the case of complete freezing of the aerial part, in the spring, new shoots grow from the root collar.

Many cultural forms are considered common.

Variegata

Myrtus variegata

Variety common myrtle. Variegated variety (Myrtus Variegata) or variegated with beautiful bicolor leaves.

Green, large, oval-elongated leaves with white strokes and streaks along the edges. With a lack of lighting, motley spots turn pale and disappear. The aroma of flowers and leaves is less pronounced compared to ordinary myrtle.

Bolotny

Mirt Hamedafna (marsh)

Myrtle Hamedafna or Cassandra are other names for the marsh myrtle. In nature, it is found exclusively in swampy areas, which is why it got its name. Marsh myrtle is the most resistant to low temperatures. It tolerates snowy winters in central Russia. The shape resembles a low, sprawling shrub 80–100 cm tall with straight branches. Smooth dark green leaves up to 4 cm long.

The flowers form racemose inflorescences in the axils of the leaves. On the cold period Cassandra sheds her leaves. The aerial part of the plant contains toxic substances that are dangerous to animals. Life expectancy is 40–50 years.

Luma

myrtle luma

An evergreen tall species of myrtle, in its natural environment reaches 20–25 m in height. The trunk is strongly branched, up to 50 cm in diameter, covered with smooth gray-brown bark. Young branches are pubescent. Leaves up to 5 cm long and up to 2 cm wide, opposite, ovate, tapering towards the petiole, the end of the leaf is rounded. Petiole short, no more than 5 mm, covered with hairs. The surface of the leaf is smooth, the upper part of a darker saturated green color compared to the underside. Leaves exude a strong odor.

Myrtle luma blooms profusely, white flowers are collected in racemose inflorescences in the leaf axils. Flowering period October-January. After flowering, a black-violet fruit-berry up to 1.5 cm in diameter is formed, luma myrtle bears fruit from December to March. The tree is winter-hardy, tolerates temperature drops to -7 ... -10 C.

Most often in the natural environment can be found in South America at an altitude of 500–1500 m above sea level, along the banks of rivers and lakes.

small-leaved

Myrtle small-leaved

Dwarf variety of common myrtle. Small-leaved myrtle is covered with small leaves up to 2 cm long. It grows no higher than 60 cm. Very often grown at home.

large-leaved

Myrtle large-leaved

Varietal form of common myrtle with large, opposite leaves up to 5 cm long, with a smooth, glossy surface and a pointed end. The plant can reach 3-4 m in height. Stems are tetrahedral. Large-leaved myrtle has medicinal properties, preparations based on it are used in alternative medicine. It has an antimicrobial effect, eliminates pathogenic microbes and bacteria.

How to care for myrtle at home?

At home, myrtle requires very high-quality and stable care. In addition to the main requirements for temperature, watering, lighting and pruning, the plant needs a dormant period. This is the only major difficulty that can arise when growing houseplant at home. If the myrtle sheds leaves, this is the first sign of improper care and maintenance.

Despite the capricious disposition, the plant is quite tenacious and hardy, able to recover from freezing and fire, able to live up to 300 years.

Location and lighting

The best option for the plant will be a place with bright diffused light. The flower loves to be in the fresh air, a place in front of open window will be ideal for the plant. The windowsills of the western and eastern windows are the most successful place for a flower. On the south side, the plant needs protection from intense bright light in the spring and summer.

Without prejudice to the decorative appearance of the myrtle, it can be under the direct rays of the sun for several hours. In the summer, a flower pot is taken out into the open air to a balcony, terrace or garden, a new place should be protected from direct sunlight.

Temperature

At home, caring for myrtle requires close attention. From the beginning of spring until the dormant period, the plant must be kept at a temperature of +18 ... +20 C. During the dormant period, in winter, the temperature should not be higher than +10 C and not lower than +5 C.

Air humidity

Since the plant comes from southern hot countries, it should provide a slightly higher humidity level than normal, about 60%. At home, the air humidity is quite low, and in winter the air is even drier due to the functioning of the central heating batteries. Plant care consists not only in maintaining water balance, but also in periodically spraying the plant with soft settled or filtered water.

Watering

One of the nuances of caring for a capricious plant is the correct stable watering. The soil should always be kept moderately moist. How to water the myrtle correctly so as not to harm the flower? It is necessary to draw up an irrigation schedule and calculate required amount water.

Myrtle is very sensitive to the watering regime, and even a single miscalculation (adding too little or too much water) can affect the decorative qualities of the flower. Warm soft settled water should be used.

Do not allow overdrying or waterlogging of the soil. Watering is carried out as the top layer of soil dries. As soon as excess water merges into the pan, it is removed, otherwise rotting of the roots can be provoked. When the soil dries out, the pot with the plant is not watered in the traditional way, but placed in a container of water. Complete drying of the earthy coma can lead to the death of the flower, in which case it is almost impossible to reanimate the myrtle.

Soil for planting and transplanting

The optimal soil for planting and transplanting myrtle is chosen from three options.
The first version of the soil for myrtle is an earthen mixture of equal parts of soddy, peat soil, humus and sand. The second option is ordinary greenhouse soil. The third - one part of clay, sod, peat land, humus and ½ part of sand. In this case, you need land with an acidity index in the range of 5–6. To avoid stagnant water, choose a flower container with a sufficient number of holes at the bottom. Provide a good drainage layer of expanded clay for the plant, broken brick or crushed nut shells.

Top dressings and fertilizers

Myrtle is a finicky plant, so home care needs the closest attention. Myrtle fertilizers are necessary for full growth and lush abundant flowering. As a fertilizer, myrtle should be given only special complex mixtures for indoor or container cultures. Top dressing is applied during the period of active growth every 14 days.

The nutrient mixture should always be liquid. Fertilizer is diluted in warm water and applied only the next day after watering.

Any other types of fertilizers and dressings (organic, mineral, special garden) are not suitable for myrtle.

Winter Care

A characteristic feature of the flower is a long period of rest (hibernation). The duration of the dormant period of the myrtle depends on the location of the flower pot in the room. On windows with a northern orientation, the dormant period is 3 months, on the western and eastern windows about two months, on the south no more than 1.5 months.

Caring for myrtle during hibernation is different from maintaining a flower during the vegetative period. In winter, watering is limited, the plant is not sprayed, the temperature regime is provided within + 5 ... + 10 C. If the temperature regime is violated, the flower is kept in a hotter room, the plant can shed its leaves.

Difficulties in growing

Growing myrtle big and healthy is not an easy task. Many, when buying a flower, soon discover that the plant has a very difficult character. Flaws and errors during cultivation are reflected in the appearance of the flower.

When a pot of myrtle is placed in a shaded place with a lack of light, its leaves begin to turn pale and shrink. What to do in this case? The first step is to move the flower pot to a more lit place. In intense bright light, the leaf plates lose their rich green color, becoming dimmer. With prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, the leaves wither, deform, the edges become waviness. If the leaves of the myrtle fall - this indicates a violation of the temperature regime, it is above the permissible.

Myrtle dries and sheds leaves if the irrigation regime is wrong, in case of excess or lack of water in the soil.

If the reason why the myrtle dries is in overdrying or waterlogging of the soil, it is necessary to halve the shoots. When the soil is dry, watering is carried out as in normal mode. If the reason for dropping leaves is waterlogging of the soil, water it with caution, halving the amount of water.

If the soil is very wet, the roots may begin to rot, in which case a transplant is required. The first sign of eliminating the cause of improper care is the appearance of new leaves. In case of overdrying, when the leaves of the myrtle fall off, the plant can be reanimated by immersing flower pot into a container of water. If the myrtle has dried up, completely shed its foliage, the branches have lost their flexibility, then in most cases it will not be possible to save it.

Lack of flowering indicates too frequent pruning and lack of fresh air (more frequent ventilation is needed).

Trimming and pinching

Myrtle is quite calm about pruning and pinching. In its natural environment, the plant has a pyramidal crown shape. To maintain and form the desired shape, the plant needs regular pruning and shearing.

The procedure for the formation of the crown is carried out after "hibernation" before the vegetative period. The shape of the plant can be changed by pinching and cutting off last year's growths, leaving 3-4 buds. This will allow new side shoots to form. If you cut the upper shoot - the flower will bush, pinching the side shoots - the plant takes the form of a crowned tree with a branching crown.

This process encourages more accelerated healing tissues, growth and adaptation to new form. During this period, the plant needs additional strength. Immediately after pruning, a full dose of fertilizer is applied, regardless of the main schedule of planned feeding. Fertilizing on schedule and after pruning are two independent procedures, even if there is a difference of several days between them, one should by no means replace the other.

After the spring pruning of the crown, the growth of twigs will increase, the plant will not bloom next summer. For annual flowering, pruning is carried out in summer, after flowering or in winter. A choice should be made between neat branching bushes and a beautifully flowering plant with a natural crown.

Diseases and pests

The evergreen perennial is quite resistant to disease and attack by insect pests. However, with improper maintenance, violation of the temperature regime, water balance, improper lighting, the appearance of diseases and pests on the myrtle is quite likely. Most often, myrtle is affected by scale insects, aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, thrips, and spider mites.

Signs of damage by various pests:

in defeat scab a sticky coating appears on the leaves;
a light formation in the form of fluff on leaves and twigs indicates the appearance mealybug;
thrips are the cause of the appearance of light spots on the upper side of the sheet and dark ones on the underside;
when aphids leaves dry and curl;
the formation of a white web on the underside of the leaf indicates the defeat of the flower spider mite.

Planting and reproduction

Myrtle is propagated in two ways - seed and vegetative (cuttings). Both methods give good results, but with the vegetative method, flowering occurs much earlier than with the seed method. Propagation by cuttings is the only method of maintaining cultivars. Reproduction by seeds does not guarantee the preservation of varietal characteristics. Due to slow growth grow quickly big plant will not work.

Many abandon the idea of growing myrtle from scratch and acquire an adult flower, since the purchased plant is large enough, with a crown formed. Those who bought myrtle in flower shops receive advice and recommendations from specialists in the care and transplantation after purchase, pruning. Despite the capricious disposition, the plant reproduces well, planting myrtle is quite simple, difficulties arise in ensuring a comfortable, optimal maintenance.

Reproduction by cuttings

For this method, cuttings of 6-10 cm are cut from the lower and middle parts of the crown from semi-lignified annual growths. The lower cut is made under the kidney at the place of attachment of the leaf. To minimize moisture loss, part of the leaves on the cuttings are cut off at the base, except for the top ones, which are shortened by half. Pick up wide low containers filled with an earthen mixture of equal parts of leafy earth and sand.

The cuttings are planted in a moist substrate to a depth of 4–6 cm, at a distance of 5–10 cm from each other, sprayed. A box with cuttings is covered with a transparent film or glass to create the effect of a greenhouse. Contain cuttings in a cool room at a temperature of +16 ... +20 C, with diffused light. Periodically, the container is opened for ventilation, in order to avoid rotting of the cuttings.

Rooting of cuttings occurs by the end of the first month. The first sign of successful rooting is the appearance of new leaves. Further, the cuttings are planted in separate flower pots up to 7-10 cm tall with an earthen substrate from equal parts of sand, sod, peat, humus soil. Water young plants abundantly.

The next transplant, into a larger pot, is carried out when the roots of the plant completely fill the flower container.

Myrtle is propagated by cuttings in winter (January-February) and in summer - in July. Myrtle, grown from cuttings, blooms for 3-4 years.

Reproduction by seeds

The process is quite time-consuming and less efficient compared to the vegetative one. To get a new plant from seeds, you need to be patient. Prepare a wide container for sowing, with an earthen mixture of peat and sand in equal proportions. Myrtle seeds are laid out on the surface of the soil at a certain distance from each other, sprinkled on top with a thin layer of the substrate. The container is covered with a transparent lid (glass, polyethylene), kept in a warm, bright room at a temperature of + 18 ... + 20 C. Aired daily, removing the lid for 20-30 minutes to avoid acidification of the soil. The soil should be in a moderately wet state, it is highly undesirable to overdry the soil.

The first sprouts when myrtle is propagated by seeds appear by the end of the second week or even earlier.

After the formation of two true leaves, the seedlings are transplanted into individual pots of the appropriate size. An earthen mixture for picking is prepared from equal parts of sod, peat soil, humus and sand. Stunting after transplantation is common in young seedlings. Adapting to a new place, they begin to grow again.

The next transplant is carried out only after the flower pot is completely filled with horses. AT further care behind young plants is identical to the adult. Grown myrtle from seeds blooms in the fifth year of life.

myrtle seeds

Transfer

At home, myrtle transplantation is carried out in the spring. Young trees are transplanted annually, then the procedure is repeated if necessary. The first sign that a transplant is needed is the appearance of roots from the drainage holes of the flower pot.

For the myrtle transplant procedure, a more spacious pot is prepared compared to the previous flower container. The edges of the pot should not extend beyond the crown of the plant. It is necessary to remove the entire root system from the pot along with the earthy clod without damage. For this, the flower is not watered for several days. Holding the plant firmly by the base at the roots, turn the pot over and take out the lump with the roots. The lower roots are carefully freed from the ground. A drainage layer is laid at the bottom of the flower container, sprinkled with earth. The plant is lowered into a pot and covered with soil. It is necessary to ensure that the base of the trunk does not go deep into the soil.

The transplant procedure can stop the growth of the plant; for adaptation, the flower is placed in a warm shaded place.

Myrtle transplant after purchase

After the purchase, the myrtle must be transplanted. Replacing land with new, more nutritious and enriched nutrients, will benefit the plant and allow you to quickly start growing.

Before transplanting, you need to carefully monitor the soil moisture - ideal condition 2-3 days after watering. A dried earthen ball will be easier to pull out of the pot without damaging the root system. When you pull the myrtle out of the pot, be sure to hold it by the bottom of the trunk closer to the ground. If it is difficult for an earthen ball to get out of the pot due to overgrown roots, then you should take a sharp tool (for example, a knife) and gently walk along the walls of the pot.

The pot in diameter should be a couple of centimeters larger than the previous one. Drainage is poured at the bottom (for example, expanded clay), the finished soil is poured and the plant is planted, leaving it on the surface root collar. Then the newly planted plant is abundantly watered, and the remaining water from the pan is drained.

Application in medicine

Useful in alternative medicine medicinal properties myrtle have been known since ancient times and are widely used. Due to the presence of a large amount of essential oil and other useful components, myrtle has gained fame as an excellent healer. Myrtle oil is widely used throughout the world, which is used in many areas of medicine. Decoctions, inhalations, lotions and tinctures of myrtle are useful for various ailments, prevention and prevention of diseases and inflammations of the female genital, genitourinary, digestive system, and respiratory organs. From room myrtle at home, you can make decoctions, infusions and tinctures. Essential oil is better to buy in pharmacies.

Medicinal and beneficial properties of myrtle

Plant-based preparations (myrtle oil, tincture, decoction) have:

astringent;
wound healing;
hemostatic;
antitumor;
antitoxic;
anti-inflammatory;
painkiller;
and antiviral activity.

The healing properties of myrtle are used for inflammatory diseases of the digestive system (gastritis, ulcers, colic), since preparations based on myrtle have an astringent, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effect.

Myrtle oil, as an infusion for external and internal use, perfectly helps with various seasonal viral and colds. With sore throats, runny nose, sore throat, flu, it is good to be near the plant, because by releasing phytoncides, myrtle destroys pathogenic microbes, increasing immunity and overall body resistance. For colds, it is useful to chew a couple of myrtle leaves several times a day, this will strengthen the immune system and cope with the disease faster.

The soothing and analgesic properties of myrtle essential oil for headaches, migraines are very effective.

The plant can be attributed to natural antibiotics, since it contains myrtilin. Myrtle has a powerful antibacterial, antiviral and immunostimulating effect.

Contraindications

Unique in its healing properties, myrtle has a number of contraindications. Preparations based on it are not advised to use during pregnancy, during breastfeeding, with individual intolerance to oil components, as well as for the elderly.

When planning the location of a flower in an apartment, it is highly recommended not to place a flower pot at the head of the beds. The plant can cause sleep disturbance.

Application in cooking

Common myrtle and its cultivated varieties are widely used in different countries with different culinary traditions. It is used as an additive in the preparation of many dishes and drinks. Jam is made from fresh fruits and berries, liquor is made. Dried fruits are added in the production of sausages. Myrtle leaves, along with bay leaves, are added to pickles and marinades. The bark, branches of the tree are used for grilling or bonfire meat and fish, they give the dish a unique flavor. Use the plant as a seasoning for dishes should be careful, when large quantities it gives the dish a bitter taste.

Application in cosmetology

Useful properties of myrtle are widely used in cosmetology. Possessing a tonic, anti-inflammatory, soothing, nourishing, firming effect, myrtle oil is used in various cosmetic preparations. Oil-based creams are great for treating and preventing oily, porous, acne-prone and acne-prone skin. The oil allows you to eliminate and prevent the appearance of rosacea, the appearance of clearly defined blood vessels on the skin of the face. The oil nourishes, moisturizes and evens out skin color, gives it a healthy look, relieves inflammation. Myrtle oil is an indispensable remedy for excessive sweating, seborrhea, weak, brittle and falling hair. Due to the strengthening properties, it is possible to significantly reduce hair loss, strengthen hair follicles, improve their structure and general condition.

Application in landscape design

Myrtle ordinary will fit perfectly into any home interior. Due to its disinfecting properties, it is ideal for children's and playrooms. Myrtle tree with its capricious disposition is suitable only for true lovers of decorative southern plants. At home, with some experience and a good supply of patience, it is possible to form a crown of a certain shape within a few years. Optimal comfortable conditions can turn an evergreen tree into a lush, flowering plant. Currently, in specialized flower shops you can buy myrtle bonsai - a finished, shaped miniature tree.

Myrtle small-leaved

Myrtle, which is easy to care for at home, is an evergreen. In the Mediterranean countries, it is grown as a shrub or small tree, and in cold climates has become a houseplant. Myrtle is often seen as a gift for the bride, which heralds a successful marriage.

Several types of myrtle are grown at home.

The most popular are:

Common myrtle or indoor myrtle is the most common species. The trunk of the plant is not long, well developed. The bark is exfoliating. Its color is red-brown. Small leathery leaves have a rich green hue with a very pleasant aroma.
Tarentina is a compact shrub.
Alhambra - forms fruit-berries and is distinguished by very dense green foliage;
Variegata - the plant stands out among others with its very variegated foliage.

If desired, more exotic forms of myrtle can be found on sale, but the most common ones are very beautiful when grown properly.

Myrtle - growing features

Myrtle at home is grown in two ways - from seeds or apical cuttings. Those plants that are commercially available are most often obtained by cuttings. At home, if you want to grow myrtle yourself, you can use both methods.

With the help of seeds

Reproduction of myrtle by seeds is not the most effective, but it is still used by amateur flower growers. Seeds are planted in early spring in a pre-prepared light substrate, which is made up of peat and sand, taken in equal quantities. Soil is poured into the planting box with a layer of 10 cm. Next, seeds are sown on it and covered with soil 4 cm thick on top. After that, the soil is qualitatively moistened and the box is covered with glass. The temperature of seed germination should not be lower than +20 degrees. To ventilate the glass, it is necessary to raise it once a day for 4-5 minutes. Seeds germinate in about 2 weeks. If the seedlings are excessively thick, they are thinned out.

Plants dive when 3 leaves appear on them.

30 days after germination, the first fertilizing with nitrogen fertilizer is carried out in a low concentration. Subsequent top dressing is carried out 1 time per month, while alternating complex mineral supplements and organic fertilizer.

cuttings

Cuttings allow you to get a new plant that will fully retain its parental properties. Cuttings can only be cut from a healthy myrtle. You should not take too young shoots for them. For cuttings, only semi-lignified shoots are used. The cut, which is made at an angle of 45 degrees, is processed with root to stimulate the formation of roots. After the cutting is placed in the ground, which must always be wet. When everything goes right, the cutting takes root and a new plant begins to develop. If you miss a moment, and the soil in the pot dries out, then the stalk will not be able to release the roots, even after the restoration of soil moisture. After rooting, care will be the same as for an adult plant.

Myrtle care at home

For the qualitative development of the plant, it is necessary to provide good care. Only in this case it will retain an attractive appearance for a long time. Proper care at home contributes to regular flowering, which is very beautiful.

Temperature and humidity

The optimum temperature for the plant is considered to be + 22 + 24 degrees. In summer, myrtle feels especially good if it is taken out into the fresh air, but not left under the scorching sun. In winter, it is desirable to reduce the temperature to +10 degrees. At the same time, it is necessary to regularly ventilate the room where it is located. indoor flower.

Humidity does not play a big role, but still, it is worth considering that myrtle grows better if it is less in winter than in summer. For this in summer months in order to increase the humidity of the air, it is recommended to put the plant on a saucer with expanded clay, into which a little water is poured. Evaporating, it will humidify the air around the plant. In the cold season, the saucer is not placed.

Watering and feeding

Watering should be regular and at the same time moderate. With excessive moisture, the myrtle can begin to rot. Also, the plant is sprayed daily with water. Without this, the aerial part will begin to dry out and turn yellow. Use for irrigation and spraying should only settled water at room temperature. In winter, myrtle is watered once a week and not sprayed. Moisturizing the crown in the cold season is carried out only if the room is hot.

Feed myrtle with complex fertilizers for flowering houseplants. In summer, top dressing is carried out once a week, and in winter once a month. It is important to carefully monitor the reaction of the plant to fertilizer. If it overdoes the top dressing, then this means that either the drug is diluted with insufficient quality, or another remedy must be used.

flower pruning

Myrtle pruning is needed in order to form its crown. It should be done in the spring 1 time in 2 years. It is important to be in time before the moment when active vegetation begins. In the summer months, only pinching of emerging shoots is allowed. After pruning or pinching, the plant must be additionally fed with a fertilizer that does not contain chlorine. A very active haircut of the plant is not desirable, as it will cause poor-quality formation of flower buds. However, myrtle lends itself easily to crown formation. You can create pyramids, balls and other shapes.

Transfer

The myrtle flower grows slowly, and it does not require frequent transplantation. It is enough to do it once a year young plant and once every 2-3 years in an adult. The best time for this is winter, when the plant is at rest and more easily endures all stressful moments.

A few days before transplanting, the myrtle is not watered. The plant is transplanted by transshipment, without disturbing the earthy coma. It is good to lower the myrtle for 5 minutes in a growth stimulator, since in this case it will be easier for him to take root. The new pot should be larger than the previous one, but not more than 7 cm in diameter, so that there is no excess soil left in it that will fade.