Eucalyptus trees, known for their rapid growth and aromatic oils, offer a unique aesthetic to the Florida landscape. Their fresh, menthol-like scent and distinctive blue-green foliage make these Australian natives highly desirable. Successfully cultivating them in Florida requires navigating the challenges of intense summer humidity and occasional winter cold snaps. Selecting the right varieties and implementing specific care strategies ensures these trees flourish in the state.
Selecting Florida-Hardy Varieties
The success of growing eucalyptus depends on selecting a species that tolerates both humidity and cold temperatures. In North Florida (USDA Hardiness Zone 8a), frost tolerance is the primary concern. The Silver Dollar Gum (Eucalyptus cinerea) is recommended for this region due to its cold hardiness and ornamental, silvery-blue leaves.
For Central and South Florida, where freezes are milder, a wider range of species is viable. Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum) and Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum) are resilient and drought-hardy once established. Note that fast-growing species like Eucalyptus grandis, Eucalyptus robusta, and E. camaldulensis are classified as invasive in some South Florida natural areas and should be avoided.
Species such as Eucalyptus benthamii and Eucalyptus amplifolia offer excellent freeze tolerance, making them suitable statewide. If you live in a colder zone but want a less hardy type, grow it as a seasonal annual or in a container moved indoors during winter. Always check local agricultural recommendations to ensure the species is appropriate for your microclimate and is not invasive.
Proper Site Preparation and Initial Planting
Eucalyptus trees require direct, full sun for at least eight hours daily to support their vigorous growth. Florida soil presents challenges, often being sandy and lacking organic matter, or poorly drained flatwood soil. Although eucalyptus prefers well-drained conditions, sandy soil struggles to retain the moisture and nutrients needed for establishment.
Dig the planting hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Amend the native soil with organic materials like compost to improve water retention and nutrient availability. For areas with poor drainage, create a raised planting bed, or “bedding,” to prevent water from pooling around the roots and causing rot.
Ensure the top of the root ball sits slightly above the surrounding soil level to maintain drainage at the root crown. After backfilling and gently firming the soil to eliminate air pockets, thoroughly water the area. Due to the rapid growth potential, proper spacing is important; plant a minimum of 25 to 30 feet away from structures or other large trees.
Ongoing Care and Managing Florida Weather
After the initial establishment phase (the first growing season), eucalyptus trees are drought-tolerant, but deep watering is needed during dry spells. Instead of frequent, shallow watering, deep soaking once every one to two weeks encourages a strong, deep root system. Adjust this schedule during the summer rainy season, as excessive moisture is detrimental to the tree’s health.
Fertilization should be cautious, favoring a balanced, slow-release formula applied in early spring if the soil is infertile. Avoid fertilizers with excessive nitrogen, as this promotes tender new growth susceptible to disease and pests. Phosphorus is beneficial for root development and is often a limiting nutrient in Florida soils.
Pruning can be performed at any time to maintain size or shape, but radical pruning should be avoided. To keep the plant as a dense shrub with juvenile foliage, use coppicing—cutting the main stem close to the ground—to stimulate bushy growth. This technique also improves air circulation, which defends against humidity-related fungal issues.
Florida’s high humidity and warm temperatures create an ideal environment for fungi, making diseases like Anthracnose, Powdery Mildew, and Phytophthora Root Rot a concern. Ensure the tree has good air circulation, excellent drainage, and avoid overhead watering for prevention. During winter cold snaps, protect young trees by applying a thick layer of organic mulch around the base to insulate the roots. Covering the entire plant with a frost cloth or blanket helps trap warmth.