Living in South Africa, where we have a lot of sun, our shrubs and trees grow rather quickly. For example, an Almond tree will take around 9 years to grow to a height of 4m in England, but will reach the same height in just 4 years, in South Africa.

Shrubs and trees are easily grown from a seed, in a tray and then planted out, when small. This is true of the Bauhinia Variegata, which grows a long tap root, very quickly and is best planted out, when still a seedling. It usually flowers in the 3rd year after planting, reaching a height and width of around 3 to 4m. This becomes a far more naturally shaped plant, than those bought in a tin, from the nursery.

Ericas are slow growing shrubs, so planting a seedling is better than planting a seed.
Growing from a seed also enables them to acclimatise themselves, in different parts of the country, away from their natural habitat.

For example, the Silver Tree, which grows on top of Table Mountain, can be grown from a seed and adjust itself to the cold winters of the Transvaal, but seldom survives, if transplanted as a seedling. This will reach a height of 2m, in about 3 years, if watered well. During winter this plant must be protected from the frost, by means of a wall, or rock shelter, in the early stages of growth.

One must prepare the tins in the same way, as for flower seeds. You need holes and small stones at the bottom, for drainage, and then the tins should be filled with a good mixture of soil and compost. Vermiculite can be added to the soil mixture, as this aids in water retention and makes the seeds germinate more successfully.

Large, hard-skinned seeds can be soaked in water, until the skins split, before planting out. There is a chance that the seeds may rot, so watch them.

The golden rule for seeds, is that a layer of soil, not thicker than it’s own diameter, should cover the seed. A piece of hessian should cover the tins and only be removed when watering, or when the seedling has emerged enough, with at least 2 leaves showing.

The only disadvantage of growing a shrub, or tree from a seed, is that it might not be identical to the parent. It might show different characteristics and flower colours. The best way is to rather take a cutting of the one you prefer, or buy a seedling from the nursery.
                     
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Sally Robson is a South African Internet marketer, who together with her husband Derek, have a vision of empowering all fellow South Africans and other non U.S folk, to have equal opportunity and success on the internet, by overcoming the many obstacles facing them. They have started a string of sites, resources, courses and articles, as part of Dersalsites. Sally has a passion for gardening. For more articles and advice on gardening topics, visit Sally at: http://www.dersalsites.com/sallysgardeningtips/

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