Oleander Tree in landscape

Oleander Care Guide

Oleander, botanical name Nerium oleander, is an evergreen available in tree or shrub form. Both shrub and tree form plants produce vibrant color. They are a welcome addition to any property where color and privacy is desired. Flower colors range from pink to red, white, and salmon. Oleanders are drought tolerant and salt tolerant so that they are suitable for xeriscaping as well as the coastal areas. They are also tolerant of pollution, making them a popular choice for urban gardens. Homeowners and landscapers alike appreciate the low-maintenance features. Grow them in the landscape or a container. These historical plants are featured in many of the Roman wall paintings in Pompeii. Oleander is considered hardy for USDA plant hardiness zones 8 through 10.

Where to Plant Oleander

Plant Oleander in a location with full sun exposure. Full sun is at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. This is a tall, bushy evergreen, so they are used as a natural privacy hedge to block unwanted views or as a windbreak. Tolerates a wide range of soils.

How to Water Your Oleander

Once established, Oleander can withstand a lack of water. If they begin to drop their foliage, they can quickly bounce back with adequate irrigation. Water deeply about every three days. To water, deep soak around the root ball. Install emitters about one and a half feet from the trunk. If using a water hose, set the hose on a slow trickle so that it can thoroughly saturate the root ball. Be sure not to over water and that there is no standing water. During dry weather, watering with a supplemental 1-2-inches per week promotes growth and profuse flowering.

How to Fertilize Your Oleander.

For best results, apply Moon Dust three times a year. So that you can remember easier, we recommend fertilizing with Moon Dust on Labor Day, Memorial Day, and Valentine’s Day. Apply Moon Juice every month. Those that live in Arizona and Nevada should supplement with our Soil and Water Conditioner because the water in these states is high in salt. You can purchase these beneficial fertilizers at any of our nursery locations in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Texas.

How to Trim Your Oleander.

Oleanders are generally a very low-maintenance plant. Trim both bush and tree form Oleander to make it a more manageable size. This is a very durable plant that can tolerate a good amount of pruning. Disinfect the pruners in-between cutting to avoid infections. For tree form Oleander, prune off the suckers. Do a heavy prune in early spring.

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