Q&A for How to Grow Eucalyptus

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  • Question
    Is it easy to grow eucalyptus?
    Lauren Kurtz
    Professional Gardener
    Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. She earned a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014.
    Professional Gardener
    Expert Answer
    Yes, and there are multiple ways to grow it.Though eucalyptus grows more successfully from a seed, it can be propagated from a cutting, too. Take a 4- to 6-inch cutting and plant it in a small pot filled with perlite or potting soil. Keep this substrate most and regularly mist the cutting. Place it in a warm area with good sunlight and let your tree grow!
  • Question
    How many years does a eucalyptus tree live?
    Lauren Kurtz
    Professional Gardener
    Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. She earned a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014.
    Professional Gardener
    Expert Answer
    A eucalyptus tree can live 250 years in the wild. It can survive a very long time in a cultivated landscape with the proper care and environment.
  • Question
    Are eucalyptus plants evergreen?
    Lauren Kurtz
    Professional Gardener
    Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. She earned a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014.
    Professional Gardener
    Expert Answer
    Yes, eucalyptus are evergreen. If you live in climate with a cold season, they will not overwinter outdoors. Bring your plant indoors and place it in a sunny window in the winter.
  • Question
    Can I put my eucalyptus plant in a vase with water?
    Lauren Kurtz
    Professional Gardener
    Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. She earned a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014.
    Professional Gardener
    Expert Answer
    You can take leaf and stem cuttings to use in a vase with water. Know, however, that this will not produce a plant and will likely only last a few days to a few weeks as decoration.
  • Question
    Can I take a clipping from a Eucalyptus tree and plant it?
    Community Answer
    Yes. You can take cuttings from a eucalyptus plant, root in silica sand and then transplant to potting soil.
  • Question
    If I plant a cutting of my eucalyptus, will it grown new roots?
    Community Answer
    Place the cutting in silica sand first. Once new growth appears you will know the eucalyptus cutting has established roots that require more nutrients. Then you may plant in a pot of potting soil or the garden if zone 7 or above.
  • Question
    Am I supposed to prune a eucalyptus tree?
    Community Answer
    Eucalyptus trees are very low-maintenance, and generally don't require any pruning. You can prune and trim if you want to shape the tree, but this is not necessary.
  • Question
    Are eucalyptus plants harmful to pets?
    Community Answer
    Yes, they are. Eucalyptus is toxic to many animals, including dogs, cats, and horses. If ingested, eucalyptus can cause diarrhea, vomiting, salivation, weakness, and other symptoms.
  • Question
    Can I plant eucalyptus at the boundaries of a garden?
    Community Answer
    Eucalyptus can grow hundreds of feet tall with fairly thick trunks, and their roots can take over once established. It is recommended that the tree has lots of space.
  • Question
    Can the roots damage sidewalks or pathways?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Mature eucalyptus tree roots can damage and lift up sidewalks and pathways. They should be planted well away from any pathway, so that they will not have to be removed in the future.
  • Question
    Are eucalyptus plants helpful for breathing?
    Community Answer
    Yes, eucalyptus can be beneficial for your breathing. I suggest taking cuttings, bundling them together, and hanging the bundle upside down in your shower.
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