Lemon myrtle trees are native to Australia and are found in both temperate and rainforest regions of the country. They are popular ornamental trees and are great for flavoring tea and cooking.
If you’re looking to buy a lemon myrtle tree, you’ll be pleased to know that they are widely available both online and in stores. Online retailers tend to offer the best selection and prices, while local nurseries may be a better fit depending on your needs.
When shopping online, always look for reputable sellers offering organic and freshly harvested lemon myrtle. Organic lemon myrtle is free from persistent pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals, and is said to have a sweeter and more intense aroma.
It’s also important to keep an eye on shipping costs when buying online, as some sellers may charge exorbitant fees for express delivery. You should also be aware of the seller’s online customer service policies, and make sure you can contact them easily if you need assistance with anything.
Local nurseries and garden centers should also stock lemon myrtle trees. They often have a great selection of trees and will be able to help you find the right one for your needs. However, you should bear in mind that prices may be slightly higher than those you’ll find online.
When purchasing a lemon myrtle tree from a local nursery, make sure to examine the leaves and branches of the tree. Check to make sure there are no insects or diseases present and that the soil is fertile. You should also ask the seller if they can provide any advice on how best to care for the tree.
With this information in mind, you should now have all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision about where to buy your lemon myrtle tree.
Types of Lemon Myrtle Trees
There are numerous varieties of lemon myrtle tree, including sub tropical, tropical, and semi-evergreen. The exact types available to you will depend on the area you live in. Sub tropical trees can survive temperatures as low as 0 degrees Celsius, while tropical trees tend to require warmer climates to thrive.
Semi-evergreen trees have soft, curving branches and powerful but sweet smelling resin. They are often used in perfumes, cosmetics, and food flavoring. They also tend to be quite tall, growing up to 15 meters in height.
When choosing a lemon myrtle tree, it’s important to consider your climate and needs. If you live in a cooler area, then a sub tropical tree is probably the best choice. If you prefer a fast-growing, fragrant tree, then a semi-evergreen is probably the best option.
When looking for a lemon myrtle tree, it’s also important to take into consideration the amount of sunlight it will receive. Too much light can damage the tree, while too little can weaken it. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult an expert on the matter.
Caring For a Lemon Myrtle Tree
Once you’ve purchased your lemon myrtle tree, it’s important to look after it properly. This will ensure it remains healthy and vibrant for years to come.
The first step is to make sure the tree is getting adequate water. Lemon myrtle trees don’t tolerate drought very well and require regular watering. The amount of water you will need to provide depends on the size of the tree and the area you’re in.
The second step is to apply a balanced fertilizer during the spring and summer months. Doing so will help ensure that the tree has all the nutrients it needs to grow and remain healthy.
It’s also important to prune the tree when needed. Doing so will keep it looking tidy and allow sufficient light to reach the plant’s interior. Make sure to use sharp, clean secateurs when pruning.
Finally, it’s a good idea to mulch around the tree to keep it protected from extreme temperatures. Doing so will also help to retain moisture in the soil. Choose a mulch high in nitrogen as it will help to encourage healthy growth.
Protecting a Lemon Myrtle Tree
Like all plants, lemon myrtle trees require protection from pests and diseases. The most common pests are generally soil insects, mites, and scale. All of these can be treated with an appropriate insecticide.
Fungal and bacterial diseases can also affect lemon myrtle trees, so it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of infection. Common symptoms of infection include wilting leaves, yellow leaves, and cankers on the bark. If you see any of these signs, it’s best to contact a professional for advice on how to proceed.
Another way you can protect your tree is by using a fertilizer with a high sodium content. This will help to prevent soil-born fungal and bacterial diseases.
You should also be aware of any major changes in temperature. If temperatures drop too low, your tree could die. In extreme cases, it’s best to move the lemon myrtle tree indoors.
Harvesting a Lemon Myrtle Tree
Once your lemon myrtle tree is mature and healthy, you can start to harvest the leaves. To do so, simply pluck the leaves off the stems with your fingers or a pair of scissors.
Harvesting too early or too late can affect the quality of the leaves, so it’s important to be mindful of the best time to harvest. Generally speaking, the leaves should be harvested in the morning or late afternoon when the oils are at their peak.
When harvesting, make sure to use only fresh, healthy leaves free from damage. Unhealthy leaves can affect the flavor of your tea or food.
Once you’ve harvested the leaves, you can either use them immediately or store them in an airtight container for later use. If stored properly, the leaves should remain fresh and flavorsome for 6-12 months.
Preserving Lemon Myrtle Leaves
If you have a surplus of lemon myrtle leaves, you may wish to preserve them. Doing so will allow you to enjoy the flavor and aroma of the leaves year round.
One way you can preserve lemon myrtle leaves is by drying them. To do so, spread the leaves out on a baking tray lined with greaseproof paper and heat them in the oven at 80 degrees Celsius until the leaves turn brown and become crisp. Once dried, simply store the leaves in an airtight container and enjoy anytime.
Another popular way to preserve the leaves is by freezing them. Simply spread the leaves on a baking tray and place them in the freezer. Once frozen, store the leaves in an airtight container. Freezing the leaves will help to lock in their oils and preserve the flavor and aroma.
You can also preserve lemon myrtle leaves by making an oil extract. To do so, simply steep the leaves in a carrier oil such as almond oil or coconut oil and then store the mixture in an airtight container. The oil extract can be used as an aromatic medicine or culinary ingredient.
Conclusion
Buying a lemon myrtle tree is a great way to bring some fresh, fragrant aromas into your home or garden. They come in many varieties and can be easily found both online and in local nurseries. Before purchasing a tree, it’s important to consider your climate and needs, and make sure to look after it properly once purchased. You can also preserve the leaves through drying, freezing, or making a scented oil extract.
