Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Care in UK: Indoor/Outdoor Guide

Climate Reality

Native to Australia. Hardy to 0°C (32°F) but UK winters are wet/cold—treat as houseplant.

Seasonal Movement

• Outdoors after last frost (May) in filtered sun.
• Indoors before first frost (Oct) to bright, cool room (10–15°C ideal).

Potting

• Start in 12″ pot with 1″ gravel base.
• Quality potting soil (loam-based).
• Water deeply after repotting.

Watering

Water only when soil dry to 3″ depth. Deep soak, then wait. Never let sit in water.

Light

Filtered sunlight indoors. Outdoors: dappled shade. Leaves bleach if too intense.

Acclimation

Give 1 month after any move to settle. Watch for new growth (good) or decline (adjust).

Long-Term

Can reach 7m tall/5m wide in ground. Prune to maintain size. Rarely pests/diseases indoors.