Oleander Nerium oleander

Water

Oleander requires regular watering, especially during the growing season (spring to fall).
The frequency of watering will depend on factors such as the temperature, humidity, and soil type. In general, it is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between watering.
However, if the weather is particularly hot and dry, the plant may require more frequent watering.

Light

Oleander prefers full sun to partial shade and should be placed in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a south-facing window or under artificial grow lights to ensure it receives adequate light.

Temperature

Oleander is native to warm subtropical regions and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. In general, it prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C) and can tolerate occasional brief periods of colder temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C).
However, prolonged exposure to frost or freezing temperatures can damage or kill the plant. If grown indoors, it should be placed in a location with consistent temperatures and protected from cold drafts.

Pruning

Oleander benefits from regular pruning to maintain a desirable shape and promote healthy growth and flowering. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Dead or damaged branches should be removed, and the plant can be shaped as desired by trimming back the tips of branches. It is important to wear gloves and protective clothing when pruning Oleander, as all parts of the plant are toxic and can cause skin irritation or more serious health problems if ingested.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Oleander grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of equal parts sand, peat moss, and perlite is a good choice.
The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0.
Avoid using heavy or clay soils, as these can cause water to accumulate around the roots and lead to root rot.

Repotting

Oleander should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when the plant outgrows its current container. Repotting should be done in the spring before new growth begins.
Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and fill it with fresh potting soil. Carefully remove the plant from its current container and gently loosen any tangled roots. Place the plant in the new container and fill in with soil, pressing down lightly to eliminate any air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting.

Humidity & Misting

Oleander can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels, but prefers moderate to high humidity. If the air is very dry, the plant may benefit from occasional misting with a fine spray of water.
Alternatively, a humidity tray can be created by placing the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water. As the water evaporates, it will create a humid microclimate around the plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  All year round

• Outdoor

  Can be grown as an outdoor plant in a suitable climate

• Hardiness zone

  8-10 USDA

Life cycle

Oleander is an evergreen shrub that can live for many years. Here are the stages of its life cycle:

Seed germination: Oleander seeds can be planted in the spring, after the last frost date in your area. The seeds require warmth and moisture to germinate, so they can be started indoors in pots or sown directly in the ground outside. Germination can take 2-4 weeks.

Seedling stage: Once the seeds have germinated, they will grow into small seedlings that will require regular watering and fertilization. The seedlings can be transplanted into larger pots or the ground once they have developed a few sets of true leaves.

Vegetative growth: During the first few years of its life, Oleander will focus on vegetative growth, producing new stems and leaves each year. It will require regular watering, fertilization, and pruning to promote healthy growth.

Flowering: Oleander typically blooms in the summer, with the peak bloom time depending on the climate and growing conditions. The flowers can be white, pink, red, or yellow, and are often fragrant. The plant will continue to produce flowers throughout the summer and into the fall.

Seed production: After the flowers have been pollinated, they will produce seed pods that will ripen and split open to release the seeds. The seeds can be harvested in the fall and planted the following spring to start the cycle again.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring - summer

• Oleander can be propagated by several methods, including cuttings, layering, and division. Here are the details of each method:
  
  Cuttings: Oleander cuttings can be taken in the spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing. Choose a stem that is 6-8 inches long and has several sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist and in a warm, bright location until roots develop, which can take 4-6 weeks.
  
  Layering: This method involves bending a lower branch of the Oleander plant down to the ground and covering a section of it with soil, leaving the tip exposed. Roots will form where the covered section of stem makes contact with the soil. Once the layer has rooted, it can be cut from the main plant and transplanted into a new location.
  
  Division: Oleander can be divided in the early spring, before new growth begins. Dig up the entire plant and use a sharp knife to separate the root ball into sections, making sure each section has at least one stem and a healthy root system. Replant each section in a new location, and water thoroughly.

Pests

Spider mite, Scale insects, Mealybug, Aphid

Diseases

Bacterial leaf streak, Anthracnose, Root Rot, Powdery mildew, Leaf spot