The oleander (Nerium oleander) is widespread around the Mediterranean Sea and also grows wild there, especially in wet river meadows. With us, the evergreen shrub should preferably be cultivated in tubs, as it is not sufficiently hardy in this country. Nevertheless, the oleander feels most comfortable outdoors, preferably in a sunny and warm location. However, if you take good care of it, you can leave it indoors.
Oleanders need a lot of light
Oleander needs a sunny spot
But whether on the terrace, on the balcony or in the apartment: Oleander needs a lot of light and warmth, otherwise it won't bloom. Especially when there is a lack of light, you wait in vain for the lush flowers. Naturally, it is not nearly as bright in an apartment as in a sunny spot in the garden. This is mainly due to the window panes, which filter a large part of the light. It is best to place the oleander directly in front of a bright window, but slowly acclimate it to direct sunlight. Also make sure that the flowering shrub does not tolerate drafts.
Water well and fertilize regularly
In its native regions, the oleander mainly grows directly on rivers, which from time to time overflow their banks and flood the plants. Oleander therefore needs a lot of water by nature, its root ball must not dry out under any circumstances. In addition, the shrub is one of the most consuming plants and should therefore be supplied with a good flowering plant fertilizer (€10.47) once or twice a week during the growing season. Flowered inflorescences are not cut back, as they also contain the bases for new flowers. Instead, you can pluck off faded flowers carefully, this also serves to prevent diseases.
Observe the rest period in winter
Oleander should be kept as cool as possible at around five degrees Celsius (but frost-free!) and brightly lit over the winter months (read: from November to February). Overwintering in a warm living room is not advisable. The shrub needs a break, otherwise it will weaken and may become ill. If you still want to continue cultivating the plant over the winter, you should definitely install an additional plant light. Otherwise, in search of light, the oleander forms non-viable, weak shoots and thus only loses strength.
tips
Be careful if you have small children or animals in your household: all parts of the oleander are highly poisonous.