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The Complete Guide and Care Tips for Araucaria Plant
Gardening is a fulfilling hobby, but taking care of plants can be challenging.
One of the most interesting varieties is the araucaria plant.
This evergreen tree, also known as monkey puzzle tree, is popular for its unique geometric shape and impressive height.
If you’re planning to add an araucaria plant to your garden or already have one, read on for a complete guide and care tips.
What is Araucaria Plant?
Araucaria plant belongs to the Araucariaceae family that originated from South America but now grown in many parts of the world.
Its growth pattern forms a pyramidal shape with horizontal branches arranged in whorls around the central trunk.
How to Plant Araucarias?
- Choosing Location: The first step in planting araucarias is choosing an appropriate site that receives partial shade or full sun exposure.
These trees require well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5.
- Planting Method: Dig a hole twice as wide as root ball size and slightly deeper than it; gently remove any damaged roots before placing it into the hole; backfill with soil until level with ground surface; water thoroughly after planting.
Araucaria Care Tips
Caring for araucarias requires little effort if you follow these simple tips:
- Irrigation: Water deeply once per week during dry spells keeping soil moist but not waterlogged throughout summer season when active growth takes place.. Overwatering can cause root rot which may lead to death of your plant.
- Fertilization: Apply slow-release fertilizer once in the spring, summer and fall to promote healthy growth.
Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as it may lead to leaf burn and stunted growth.
- Pruning: Prune dead, yellow or brown foliage regularly for a neat appearance.
Regular pruning helps maintain an even canopy that allows light penetration to lower branches of the tree.
Pests and Diseases
Araucarias have few pest problems but can be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and mealybugs which can cause defoliation if left untreated.
Using horticultural oil will help control the population of these pests.
The Benefits of Araucaria Plant
Araucarias are not just decorative plants; they also provide several benefits such as:
- Oxygen Production: Like all plants, araucarias produce oxygen through photosynthesis which makes them great air purifiers.
- Erosion Control: The deep roots of araucarias help reduce soil erosion by stabilizing slopes or embankments.
- Biodiversity Support: Their dense foliage provides shelter for birds and small mammals during extreme weather conditions.
In conclusion:
Araucaria plant is a great addition to your garden because it adds aesthetic value while providing numerous benefits.
By following proper planting techniques and care tips mentioned above you will grow a healthy tree with little effort required on your part.
With its unique geometric shape pyramidal form combined with horizontal branching structure arranged in whorls around central trunk, makes araucarias one of the most interesting and attractive plants you can have in your garden.
