Oleander
Oleander is one of the most beautiful of all the shrubs, but caution should be used when planting this shrub. Every part of this beautiful plant is deadly, the leaves, sap, wood and flowers. This attractive evergreen grows best in warm climates.
Oleander will produce heavy scented, brightly colored flowers from late spring to fall.
The Beauty of Oleander
Late spring brings the first buds of the Oleander that bloom clear into late fall. The varieties of flowers each bring a brilliant color bloom in shades of white, salmon, yellow, apricot, red, purple, lilac, and copper. Oleander is not native to the United States but will do very well in warm states such as Florida, California and Texas. Dry, windy conditions do not adversely affect the growth of this plant. Coastal regions are also where the Oleander will do well. Marshy soils with a salt content will be just fine with the Oleander.
Selecting a home for the Oleander
Oleander can be trimmed and kept at the bush state of six to twelve feet or left to grow into small trees that will reach about twenty feet in height. The shrubs make beautiful raised borders or fence decoration. The trees are excellent wind breaks and are attractive in a staggered row along a property line. Oleander plants need to be placed in a site with full sun or a light shade. The soil should be well drained, though Oleanders will adapt to dry conditions and marshy soils. Keeping in mind that the Oleander is a deadly plant, it is not a good idea to plan include this bush in the main walking areas of your yard, and areas where children or pets frequent. These beautiful bushes and trees will kill.
Planting Instructions
Oleanders can be planted in the spring or fall. The plants will need 6 to 12 feet of distance between them, depending on how large you want the plant to grow and the variety of the plant. Oleander should be put in a hole that is as deep as the root ball and about three times as wide as the root ball. Amending the soil at this time is a good idea to provide a healthy start for the Oleanders. A small amount of compost will help the plant adjust and thrive in its new home. Knock the plant container on the side around the circumference of the container and then pull the Oleander from the container and place in the hole.
Fill the hole half way with soil and then fill with water. This will settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Once the water has settled and drained, fill the rest of the hole with more soil and a little compost. Water this top layer thoroughly.
Care of Your Oleanders
A healthy feeding of compost in the spring makes an Oleander grow like wild fire!
Spread the compost out to the drip-
