Leptospermum Care and Growing Guide for New Zealand Gardens

Growing Leptospermum In NZ

Leptospermum is a genus of shrubs and small trees native to Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia. Known for their resilience, these plants are well-adapted to a variety of growing conditions. They are particularly valued for their stunning spring and summer flowers, which range in colour from white to deep pink and red.

Leptospermum Varieties to Consider

With numerous species and cultivars available, there's a leptospermum variety to suit every garden. Some popular choices include:

• Leptospermum scoparium: Known as the New Zealand tea tree, this variety is famous for its abundant white or pink flowers.
• Leptospermum laevigatum: The coastal tea tree, ideal for coastal gardens due to its salt tolerance.
• Leptospermum Red Damask: A striking cultivar with deep red flowers.
• Leptospermum Copper Sheen: A compact variety with copper-red foliage and is ideal for hedging and coastal gardens.

The Plant Company has dozens of Leptospermum varieties and each one is supported by a wealth of information. Check them out!

Caring for Your Leptospermum

Proper care ensures your leptospermum remains healthy and flowers prolifically. Here are some maintenance tips:

Fertilizing

• Leptospermum generally do not require heavy fertilizer applications. An annual application of native plant fertilizer in spring will support the plant for the next 12 months. Avoid excessive applications as this is generally wasteful and could harm the plant.

Pruning

• Pruning is undertaken to maintain the shape and health of your plant. The best time to prune is immediately after flowering. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and trim lightly to encourage bushier growth. Avoid cutting into old wood, as it may not regrow. Keep the overall shape in mind as trimming is undertaken.

Pest and Disease Management

• Leptospermums are relatively pest-resistant, but it's important to keep an eye out for common garden pests like aphids or scale. Use insecticides or horticultural oil to treat infestations. Good air circulation and proper watering will minimize the risk of fungal diseases.

Ideal Growing Conditions for Leptospermum

For the best results, it's important to understand the growing conditions that leptospermum prefers. Here are some key factors to consider:

Sunlight Requirements

• Leptospermums thrive in full sun. Such positions promote stronger growth and more abundant flowering. While they can tolerate partial shade, plants grown in full sunlight will typically produce more flowers.

Soil Requirements

• These shrubs prefer well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Sandy or loamy soils are ideal, as they allow for good drainage, which is essential to prevent root rot and vigorous growth.

Watering Needs

• Once established, Leptospermums are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering. However, young plants will need regular watering until their root systems are well-developed. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to waterlogged soil and rot issues.

Leptospermum Flowering

Leptospermum, commonly known as tea tree, produces abundant small flowers that range in colour from white and pink to red. Flowering typically occurs in spring and summer, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. These hardy shrubs thrive in well-drained soils and tolerate coastal conditions, making them popular for gardens across New Zealand. The flowers often have a delicate, papery texture and can vary in size depending on the variety. Regular pruning after flowering encourages bushier growth and more blooms the following season, enhancing their ornamental appeal. Leptospermum’s vibrant flowering adds colour and wildlife interest to any landscape.

Planting Leptospermum: Tips and Techniques

Planting leptospermum properly is the first step toward a thriving garden. Follow these planting tips to give your tea trees the best start.

Choosing the Right Location

• Select a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-drained soil. Avoid low-lying areas where water might accumulate. If your garden soil is heavy clay, consider planting leptospermum in raised beds or containers.

Planting Steps

• Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter, such as compost. This will help to improve drainage, nutrient content, and soil health.
• Make a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball of your plant.
• Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Backfill with soil, gently firming it around the base.
• Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Continue to water regularly for the first few weeks.

Mulching

• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Organic mulches, like bark chips or straw, are excellent choices.

Propagating Leptospermum

Leptospermum hybrids are propagated from cuttings as this is the only way of keeping the variety “pure”.

• Choose non-flowering stems that are semi-hardwood.
• Cut 10-15 cm segments and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
• Insert the cuttings into a pot filled with a well-draining propagation mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, sheltered location.
• Once roots have developed, transplant the new plants into the garden or individual containers.