Metrosideros (Metrosideros) is an unusual perennial evergreen ornamental flowering plant, common in tropical and subtropical regions of the Australian continent, South Africa and Central America, the Philippines and New Zealand, as well as numerous islands. The culture belongs to the Myrtle family and is represented in the form of trees, lianas and shrubs, which differ in shades and color of flowers, duration of flowering, as well as external characteristics.
Umbellate and panicle inflorescences of red, orange, crimson, yellow and white with long filaments are located on short pedicels. Depending on the species, the plant has leaves that are different in shape and color and stems that differ in structure. The leaf part is presented in the form of pointed ovals, ellipses with a matte or glossy surface of grayish-green shades from two to ten centimeters long. Stems are smooth and pubescent, juicy or lignified, dark green or reddish brown.
Caring for metrosideros at home
To grow metrosideros at home, some effort will be required to create a climate close to the plant's habitual lifestyle in nature. With complete comfort and full-fledged content, culture develops well in the room.
Location and lighting
Metrosideros is very fond of open sun and direct sunlight for the maximum amount of time during the day. In summer, this indoor flower is recommended to be displayed on a personal plot, an open veranda or a balcony. You need to find the brightest and most well-lit place in the room. When growing a pet on a windowsill, only the south side of the house will be ideal.
Temperature
The favorable temperature for keeping metrosideros in the autumn-winter period is from 8 to 12 degrees Celsius, and in the spring and summer months - from 20 to 24 degrees.
Watering
Irrigation water should not contain lime and chlorine impurities. When using tap water for irrigation of metrosideros, it is recommended that it be defended for 24 hours before use. It is good if the water is soft, filtered or frozen.
The amount and amount of watering depends on the size of the flower container and the drying time of the topsoil. As soon as moisture disappears from the soil surface, it's time for another watering. The flower needs abundant moisture, but without an overabundance. Roots that are overly flooded with water can develop root rot.
In the cold season, the frequency and volume of irrigation are significantly reduced.
Air humidity
Metrosideros is a plant native to humid tropical climates. At home, he just needs regular water treatments in the form of spraying and various other ways to maintain a high level of humidity in the room.
The soil
The soil for growing metrosideros needs light, with good water and air permeability and nutrient composition, neutral or slightly acidic. When purchasing a ready-made soil mixture, you need to choose a substrate for flowering indoor plants. You can prepare a high-quality soil mixture from peat, leafy earth, perlite, coarse river sand (1 part of each component) and turf soil (2 parts). The bottom of the flowerpot should be covered with a two-centimeter layer of pebbles, expanded clay or other drainage material for indoor flowers.
Top dressing and fertilizers
Fertilizers are recommended to be applied only during the growing season. The frequency of feeding is 2 times a month with an interval of 15 days. From about October 15 to April 15, the plant does not need any fertilizers.
Transfer
In the first 3-4 years, metrosideros needs to be transplanted once a year in the spring before the start of active vegetation. Adult shrub specimens are transplanted as needed, and mature trees no longer need such a procedure.
Metrosideros grown in portable flower containers (for example, in tubs) requires annual renewal of the upper soil layer.
Formative pruning
Pruning and pinching in order to form the desired shape can be carried out in adult crops at any time, except for the flowering period, and in young plants throughout the year.
Reproduction of metrosideros
It is recommended to plant metrosideros seeds only freshly harvested, as they very quickly lose their germination and are not suitable for storage.
Cutting propagation is more efficient than seed propagation. Semi-lignified cuttings should be left for rooting in vermiculite, creating greenhouse conditions for them with a high level of humidity and heating.
Diseases and pests
From scale insects and spider mites - rinse the plant with warm water (at the initial stage) or treat it with Fitoverm or Aktellik.
Falling leaves and flowers are the result of non-compliance with the conditions of detention. Root rot - from an excess of moisture in the soil.
