I Just Bought An ‘after Dark’ Agonis Patio Tree. I…
Vicki Asked
I just bought an ‘After Dark’ agonis patio tree. I want to keep it outside for summer and inside for winter. How do I do this and when should I do it? Also, what is the general care for summer and winter?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hello, Vicki: Agonis flexuosa ‘After Dark’ is commonly referred to as a peppermint tree. They are hardy in zones 9-11, which means they are a tropical where you are gardening. During the warmer months it will be happy outside in a space where it will receive a full six hours of direct sunlight. They are drought-tolerant once established in a landscape, but since you are growing yours in a container you will need to keep an eye on the moisture level. Make sure the container has drain holes and that it drains freely. During the hot summer months you may need to water every other day, but check the soil before watering. If it is still moist wait another day and then water. The soil should never be sopping wet. A thin layer of mulch on top of the soil will help retain moisture. When fall arrives you will want to bring your peppermint tree indoors before the first frost. Place it in a sunny window, preferably a south-facing one where it will get good filtered light. The light levels are lower during the winter months so giving it as much light as possible will reduce stress. You should cut back on your watering this time of the year. Once every seven to 10 days should be fine. You want to keep it on the dry side. Avoid feeding it at this time as well.
