- How often should you fertilize the miracle tree and with what?
- Does the plant tolerate drought or does it need constant watering?
- Is a cut necessary?
- Will the miracle tree survive the winter without protection?
- Which pests are increasing and what can be done against them?
Have you decided on a variety of the miracle tree and have you already been busy planting the plant? Now you are wondering what is important in care? Read on and you'll know!
Castor oil needs water regularly
How often should you fertilize the miracle tree and with what?
The miracle tree is considered a heavy feeder. When planting, you should provide it with fertilizer in the form of compost, stable manure, horn shavings (€32.93) or guano (€121.99). That gives a decent growth spurt. After that, a monthly dose of fertilizer is good for the plant. If kept in a tub, however, it should be given a portion of liquid fertilizer once a week.
Does the plant tolerate drought or does it need constant watering?
Due to its large leaves, the castor oil evaporates a lot of water. He is therefore happy if he is watered or watered at regular intervals. In general, however, it tolerates dry periods extremely well. But drought leads to slower growth.
Water the miracle tree from April to September when there is no rain and when you keep the plant in a bucket. Make sure, however, that no stagnant moisture forms! This plant is then quickly prone to root rot.
Is a cut necessary?
If no hibernation is planned, you do not need to cut the miracle tree. You can simply pull out and discard the stems in the fall. When overwintering, it is advisable to cut the stems down to the ground.
Will the miracle tree survive the winter without protection?
This is worth knowing about the winter:
- not very hardy
- dies above ground
- Roots usually survive
- in extreme frost: cover the root area with brushwood, leaves or hay
- Hibernation in the bucket: frost-free (10 to 15 °C are ideal) and bright (e.g. in the conservatory)
Which pests are increasing and what can be done against them?
Slugs don't care that castor oil is poisonous. They prefer to eat the young shoots. To protect the plant from this, you can put a clay pot over it every evening. However, remember to remove the pot in the morning!
tips
A castor bean in a pot must be repotted regularly due to its rapid growth. Don't worry: he can take it without any problems.