The Guide to Growing Eucalyptus in Containers

Eucalyptus trees are a favourite among gardenersand koalas alike, albeit for different reasons. They’re a stunning addition to any garden, offering a unique-looking and smelling bit of foliage that can revamp a display or space quickly. However, there are differences between caring forlarge eucalyptus trees and eucalyptus in containers. 

This blog will offer a guide on supporting the growth of the latter, highlighting some important aspects of care for potted eucalyptus plants. 

Choosing your variety

Before the active care comes the basic considerations, such as picking the right variety of eucalyptus. For example, you could get aEucalyptus gunnii plant, which is generally quite compact and easy to grow in a pot.  It’s also worth seeking out a hardier option, especially if your local climate has harsh winters, as a eucalyptus plant potted will be more susceptible to cold than one planted in a bed. 

Picking your container(s)

Container selection is one of the most important parts of growing eucalyptus in pots. Remember, even the smaller varieties will grow over time, with root systems expanding and outgrowing their first homes.

• Start with pots at least 12-18 inches in diameter and depth, with upgrades in place for the plant is it grows

• Every container you choose needs to have ample drainage holes to prevent root rot – gravel or broken pottery at the bottom can also help

• Terracotta pots are the best choice for aeration and minimising the complexity of water management

This is a vital step before practical growing begins. Remember, when repotting, you don’t need to go much bigger at a time, increasing the pot by around 1-2 inches in diameter at a time. 

Important considerations when growing eucalyptus in containers

Once you’ve picked your variety and your pots, it’s time to start the practical growing process, which needs to be informed much like you would approach planting in a bed. 

Soil considerations

You need to use a high-quality, well-drainingpotting mix and soil with a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.0 ideally). Avoid any with too much clay.

Planting steps

1. Remove the eucalyptus from the pot it comes in (or nursery pot if it’s a seedling)

2. Loosen any circling roots in the soil

3. Place the root ball in the centre of a new container, top level with soil surface

4. Fill container with the potting mix, gently firmed around the roots

5. Water thoroughly post-planting

Ongoing care requirements

After being planted, ongoing care requirements include: 

• Providing every eucalyptus between 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day

• Allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry to the touch before watering again

• When watering, water deeply until water drains through the pot

• Reduce your watering in general in colder climates

• Avoid over-fertilisering, using balanced liquid fertiliser, diluted to half strength monthly in the spring and summer if you choose to

• Eucalyptus doesn’t need much pruning, but it can be good for removing dead or diseased branches

• Bring the eucalyptus inside if your area reaches freezing temperatures, leaving it in a cool bright location, bringing it back outdoors in a staggered manner for spring

Finding your plant

If you’re eager to start your journey of growing eucalyptus in containers, visitOne Click Plants – we have pre-potted plants at the ready to be transferred into new, long-lasting containers and beds alike!