How to Grow Eucalyptus Plants in Coastal BC
- 1). Plant your eucalyptus seedling in spring, to allow the seedling time to take full advantage of the summertime warmth. Young eucalyptus seedlings are sensitive to cold temperatures, so wait until after the last frost in your area for your planting. In coastal BC, this timing may range from late March to mid-April.
- 2). Prepare a 10- to 20-gallon pot for the eucalyptus. Make sure that the pot is heavy enough to balance what will be heavy foliage and has a drainage hole to eliminate standing water. Fill the pot three-fourths full with quick-draining potting soil. Don't add any compost or fertilizer, as eucalyptus trees don't require rich soil.
- 3). Dig a hole 2 inches deeper than the eucalyptus seedling's root ball and twice as wide. Break up the root ball and spread the tree's roots in the hole, then fill the hole with soil. Pack the soil down with your hands to secure the seedling.
- 4). Water the eucalyptus with 4 to 5 inches of water and put it on a weekly schedule of 2 to 3 inches. Never let the eucalyptus tree's soil dry completely. Lay 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch over the soil to help maintain soil moisture while the tree is outside.
- 5). Keep the eucalyptus seedling outdoors, in a spot where it gets full sun, until winter approaches. Move it indoors around the first frost, which may occur from mid-October to mid-November in this region.
- 6). Keep the potted eucalyptus in the brightest part of your house during the winter to accommodate its lighting needs. South-facing windows are ideal spots for eucalyptus trees or shrubs. Supplement natural light with bright artificial light.