Schinus molle

How to irrigate schinus molle

The watering of this tree must be regulated on the basis of the rainfall. If, in fact, the latter are abundant, irrigations must necessarily be reduced in order not to incur annoying water stagnation, cause of rot, fungal diseases and general weakness of the plant; if, on the other hand, there is a period of drought, especially during the summer season, the administration of water must be constant. However, care must be taken to water only when the soil is completely dry. Correct irrigation is essential to obtain a luxuriant flowering; an excellent technique is that of sprinkling, which allows you to directly wet the roots avoiding the foliage, and allows you to direct the jets by choosing, depending on the situation, the frequency and intensity.

False pepper cultivation and care

Schinus molle multiplies through semi-woody summer cuttings, or through sowing. This tree easily adapts to numerous types of soil, even saline ones, which is why it is frequently used for the reclamation of coastal areas; the ideal soil, however, has an alkaline pH and, above all, is well drained to avoid the previously mentioned stagnations. It may be useful to carry out the first plant in a container, so as to carefully monitor the initial development of the plant, and then carry out the transplant in the garden. In addition, a periodic mulching operation of the soil with organic substances is suggested: this will improve the chemical and physical characteristics of the soil. Pruning is not necessary, unless there are dead or diseased branches.

Fertilizing the plant

The fertilization of Schinus molle must take place twice a year, in spring and in autumn; it is advisable to use natural products, such as manure, to be integrated if necessary with a slow-release granular fertilizer. The latter must contain, in a balanced way, the three essential macro-elements: these are potassium, phosphorus and nitrogen. In addition, the fertilizer must necessarily also include microelements such as magnesium, iron, molybdenum and manganese. Proper fertilization will avoid problems such as slow growth, a general state of weakness and leaf chlorosis. The three macro-elements perform important functions: potassium, in fact, helps the synthesis of proteins, phosphorus supports metabolism, nitrogen intervenes in the growth of the vegetative parts.

Schinus molle: Exposure, diseases and parasites

This tree prefers a sunny exposure, but it develops well even in partial shade; the important thing is to protect it from excessively strong winds and too low temperatures. In case of overabundant humidity, moreover, root rot and fungal diseases such as molds can occur; it is necessary to intervene immediately with specific fungicides, to be administered in various treatments. Sometimes aphid infestations can occur, even if this plant is quite resistant to parasites. The most suitable remedy is nettle macerate, but a simple infusion of garlic is also adequate; the aphids, which are generally green or brownish in color, must be eliminated immediately, as they not only cause perforations in the foliage and shoots, but also give rise to infections and cause the transmission of viruses.