2023 How To Grow And Care Octopus Tree: Expert Latest Advice

Choosing the Right Location for Your Octopus Tree

Care octopus tree requires full sun, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day[[Octopus Tree Facts|https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brassaia_actinophylla]]. Place the octopus tree in an area that receives bright,filtered or dapp led sunlight. Too little light will produce lanky growth with small leaves. Provide good ventilation and protection from harsh winter winds and frost.The ideal temperature range for growing octopus trees is between 15 to 30°C (59 to 86°F).
More comprehensive information and care guidelines can be read here.

care octopus tree, soil mixture, a red umbrella sitting on top of a cracked rock — *Photo by* *Amritansh Dubey* / *Unsplash*

Preparing the Soil for Optimal Octopus Tree Growth

Proper soil preparation is essential for optimal octopus tree growth and health. The soil for the octopus tree should be [[Loam Soil|https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loam]] – an equal mix of sand, silt and clay – and well draining with good aeration.Before planting, amend the native soil with organic matter like:

Compost
Worm castings
Leaf mold
Peat moss

This improves the soil’s texture, structure and fertility. Aim for at least 5% to 10% organic matter content in the final soil mix.Check the pH of the existing soil and aim for a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 to 6.5. If needed, modify the pH by adding:

Dolomitic limestone to raise pH
Sulfur to lower pH

For proper Loam Soil drainage,work organic matter and plenty of coarse sand or perlite into the native soil. Also,create a berm around the planting hole and slope the soil away from the stem to reduce water logging. Ensure a layer of drainage gravel or rocks at the base of the planting hole before backfilling with the amended soil. If the octopus tree is grown in a container, use a soil-less potting mix which drains quickly and has adequate porosity for good aeration.

care octopus tree, soil mixture, green leafed plants on black soil at daytime — *Photo by* *Markus Spiske* / *Unsplash*

Planting and Transplanting Octopus Tree: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to correctly [[Planting Trees|https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planting#Planting_trees]]:

1. Dig a wide and shallow hole. The hole should be twice as wide as the octopus tree root ball but only slightly deeper. The sides of the hole should slope inward.

2. Remove the plastic container or burlap wrapping. Gently loosen and tease the roots if they are potbound or circling.

3. Place the octopus tree in the hole. The trunk flare should be slightly above the surface of the existing ground.

4. Fill the hole 3/4 full with loose soil.Avoid compacting the soil which reduces root growth.

5. Water thoroughly. Use enough water so it runs out of the hole’s bottom.This removes trapped air.

6. Complete backfill of the holeusing the remaining amended soil. Again avoid compacting the soil.

7. Create a watering basin or berm around the baseof the octopus tree.This retains water and deters wind desiccation.

8. Attach tree staking if neededto provide stability for the first few years while the root system develops. Use wide straps to avoid damage.

9. Monitor the tree for the first few months. Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated. Water deeply and thoroughly once a week. Gradually decrease watering over time as the roots expand into the surrounding soil.

care octopus tree, soil mixture, green plant on soil — *Photo by* *paul mocan* / *Unsplash*

Essential Octopus Tree Care and Maintenance Techniques

 Proper care and maintenance is key to ensuring a long and healthy life for your octopus tree. Routine pruning, fertilizing, watering, and pest control will all need to be part of your octopus tree care routine.

 **Pruning:** Octopus trees tolerate heavy pruning which helps control their size and shape. Pruning should be done in early spring before new growth starts. Cut back any [long or spindly branches](<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Branch>) to shape the plant and reduce its height.

 **Fertilizing:** Apply a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer starting in early spring and every 6-8 weeks throughout the growing season. Mix the fertilizer according to the label instructions and water it into the soil.

 **Watering:** Keep the soil  moist throughout the growing season, allowing it to dry out slightly between watering. During winter, water only when the top inch of soil is dry.

 **Pest and disease control:**

  Common pests:
  - Aphids
  - Scale insects
  - Spider mites

  Common fungal diseases:
  - Powdery mildew