How to care for lemon myrtle trees?

Else

I have a few lemon myrtle in pots & I'm aiming for a height of 3 to 4 metres.

They're in decent sized pots with native soil mix & seem to be doing well in their current spot.

Any advice on their care would be great… E.g. will they be ok if I use eco-aminogro & seaweed tonic rather than Neutrog Bush Tucker?

EricL

Hello @Else

Lemon myrtle is a fantastic choice, and it’s worth keeping safety in mind as they grow. Once plants start heading toward 3 to 4 metres tall, moving them into the ground becomes the smartest option, as in-ground trees anchor far better and handle wind and storms with much more confidence, while also giving you stronger growth and a healthier, longer-lived plant overall.

They’ll be perfectly fine with eco-aminogro and a seaweed tonic in place of Neutrog Bush Tucker. Lemon myrtle responds best to gentle, regular feeding instead of strong fertilisers. Aminogro supports healthy leaf colour and steady growth, while seaweed tonic is excellent for root health and stress reduction. This is especially useful during transplanting. Use seaweed at planting time and again a few weeks later, then continue both products lightly through the growing season rather than in heavy doses. Bush Tucker is optional if your soil conditions are reasonable.

When moving them into the ground, choose a position with good drainage and full sun to light shade. Lemon myrtle likes consistent moisture but dislikes sitting in wet soil, so avoid low or boggy areas. Dig the hole wider than it is deep and backfill mainly with the existing soil, improving it only slightly if needed. Over-enriched planting holes can slow establishment by discouraging roots from spreading into surrounding soil.

Watering is critical for the first year. Water deeply and regularly while the roots establish, even though lemon myrtle becomes fairly drought tolerant later. Deep watering encourages strong, deep roots, which is essential for a tall tree that needs to withstand wind. Mulch around the base to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, but keep mulch clear of the trunk.

Pruning helps shape a strong tree. While young, light tip pruning encourages good structure and a sturdy framework. Once planted out, focus on developing a strong central leader and well-spaced branches rather than heavy cutting. Avoid removing the main leader unless absolutely necessary, as this can slow height gain. You can still harvest leaves during light pruning.

Pest issues like scale or psyllids can occasionally appear, especially during stress, but healthy, well-fed trees usually cope without much trouble. Good airflow, sunlight, and consistent care make a big difference.

Overall, transferring your lemon myrtle into the ground, feeding gently with eco-aminogro and seaweed, watering deeply during establishment, and pruning for structure will allow them to safely and confidently reach 3 to 4 metres without the risks that come with tall potted plants.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric