Planting
Lemon myrtle is quite versatile and can be used as a screen, hedge, feature tree or will do well in large pots and even indoors.
This Australian native tree originates from central to south-eastern Queensland in the sub-tropical rain forests. Being quite hardy, it is equally at home in WA, if given adequate water during warmer months and shelter from cold winds or frost when young.
In its natural habitat, it can grow to a height up to 20 meters, but in WA, expect a height of 3-6 meters. In milder areas of WA, it can handle full sun positions, but in hot, dry areas does best in dappled shade.
- Source from local nurseries, or propagated from cuttings taken in early Autumn.
- Plants like fertile, well-drained soil, with a pH between 5-6.5.
- If planting in ground, enrich the soil first with organic compost and manure, digging in Baileys Clay & Compost to existing soil.
- If planting in pots, use a native mix made to Australian Standards, such as Baileys Native Premium Potting Mix.
- Thorough mulching mimics its native rain-forest habitat. Once planted mulch with an organic mulch, such as Baileys Moisture Mulch.
- Keep well-watered throughout the year.
