Growing an Oleander: From Watering to Fertilizing

Growing plants is a favorite hobby for many Americans. From houseplants to outdoor gardening, there is an endless variety of plants from which to choose. However, if you want to grow a flowering shrub that is both drought-resistant and attractive, try growing an oleander bush. In this article, I will discuss how you can grow an oleander bush.

Where to Plant The Oleander Bush -

The oleander bush can be planted in a variety of soils, and will tolerate full sun. However, it is probably best to plant it in some partial shade; oleander bushes seem to prefer it. Just make sure that your oleanders have plenty of room to grow because they can reach several feet in height. Sometimes oleander bushes resemble small trees. And if you plant a group of them near each other, make sure that they are several feet apart. Between five and ten feet should be sufficient.

Watering & Fertilizing -

Since the oleander bush is a drought resistant plant, it obviously doesn't require that much water. However, if you want your oleander to flower then you may want to water it a bit more. The oleander itself may look a little more robust and healthy if you water it a little more than usual. If you're located in an area that is under water restrictions then you can just use a drip hose to water your oleander(s).

As for fertilizing, it's probably best to do that in the spring when everything starts growing. It might even help your oleander to produce more flowers. As for the type of fertilizer, you can hammer fertilizer sticks into the ground near the roots of the oleander bushes. You could also just use Miracle Grow or something similar.

Temperatures -

The oleander bush can withstand very hot temperatures fairly easily. Temperatures of one hundred degrees Fahrenheit or higher are acceptable for this plant. Of course, if you have several days or weeks of a hundred plus weather then you may want to water the plant a bit more. And like I mentioned above, shade doesn't hurt anything.

As for cold temperatures, the oleander bush can handle light freezes. However, if the temperature dips below thirty degrees then your oleander may lose its leaves. The oleander will not necessarily die, but you will have to trim back the dead branches. And once spring returns, your oleander bush may regenerate itself. But it will be much shorter due to the dead branches being trimmed off.

As you can see, growing an oleander bush is a fairly simple process. Thanks to their hearty nature and exotic beauty, oleander bushes can help to beautify your surroundings. Even if you are in a partial desert.