Cultivating and Nurturing Oleanders: A Step-by-Step Guide
Oleanders: A captivating yet poisonous garden staple
Oleanders (Nerium oleander) are a popular choice for Mediterranean gardens, offering attractive foliage and vibrant flowers in summer. The large open flower clusters come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, and peach, and are often adorned by long, slender, silvery-green leaves.
However, it is essential to exercise caution when growing and handling oleanders due to their extreme toxicity. Every part of the plant, from leaves to flowers, is poisonous if ingested and can be fatal even with minimal consumption. Though the bitter taste makes it unpalatable, it is still advisable to keep oleanders out of reach of young children and pets. Additionally, contact with the foliage can cause skin irritations, so gloves should be worn when handling the plants and hands should be washed afterward.
When planting oleanders, choose a frost-free, sunny spot for growth, either outside in a well-protected location, indoors in a conservatory or greenhouse, or in a pot that can be moved indoors during the colder months. Potted oleanders will grow to a maximum height of approximately 1m and a width of 60cm, while those planted outdoors or in a larger conservatory may grow up to 1.5-1.8m high with a narrower spread.
When planting oleanders, use a soil-based potting compost mixed with one-third coarse grit or perlite for proper drainage. Wear gloves during the planting process as the roots are also toxic. Water the plants regularly during the growing season, especially during spring when the flower buds are forming. Cut back on watering in the winter as growth slows. Fertilize with a liquid fertilizer every two weeks from late spring to early autumn.
Pruning is not necessary, but it may be needed to control the size of the plant, particularly when moving it from outdoors to indoor conditions during the colder months. Ideally, prune in late winter or early spring, starting by removing dead or damaged growth and thinning out crowded shoots. Cut back flowered shoots by half and remove a few centimeters of new shoot tips to encourage bushy growth. Dispose of prunings in your garden waste collection; do not burn them, as even the smoke produced by burning oleander contains toxins.
To propagate oleanders, take cuttings in mid to late summer by selecting leafy, non-flowering shoots and cutting them around 10cm long. Dip the base in hormone rooting powder and place in pots of seed and cuttings compost mixed with an equal volume of perlite or sharp sand. Alternatively, place cuttings in a jar of water then into compost when roots have developed. Discard the jar after use, as it may be contaminated with oleander poison. Oleanders can also be grown from seed, which should be sown immediately after ripening in autumn and transplanted once they germinate.
When choosing an oleander variety, consider its potential toxicity to pets and children. Though a wide range of varieties is available, they are usually sold based on color rather than name. White, red, and pink-flowered forms are most commonly found. Opt for specialist nurseries for a wider selection of oleander varieties.
As a precaution, always remember that oleander is toxic to humans and pets. Supervise young children, and keep pets away from the plants. When handling or pruning oleanders, wear gloves and protective clothing. In case of accidental ingestion or skin contact, seek immediate medical attention.
Keep oleander plants in a suitable home-and-garden location, such as a sunny outdoor spot or a well-protected area indoors, to ensure they thrive. However, be mindful of their poisonous nature and keep them out of reach of young children and pets to avoid any potential harm.
