Chinese Cedar (Toona sinensis) 25 seeds
 
Discover the versatile beauty of the Chinese Cedar (Toona sinensis) with this packet of 25 seeds! Also known as Chinese Mahogany, this deciduous tree is highly valued for its striking, aromatic young shoots (often eaten as a vegetable), attractive foliage that emerges pinkish-red, maturing to green, and its fast-growing, hardy nature. It's a fantastic choice for a unique ornamental tree, a shade tree, or even for its culinary and timber properties, thriving in a wide range of conditions.
 
Growing Instructions for Chinese Cedar (Toona sinensis) from Seed
 
Chinese Cedar is a relatively straightforward tree to grow from seed, provided you give it the right conditions.
 
Seed Preparation
 
Toona sinensis seeds generally do not require complex stratification or scarification, but fresh seeds usually have better germination rates. A short pre-soak can be beneficial.
Soaking (Optional but Recommended): Soak the seeds in warm (not hot) water for 24 hours just before sowing. This can help soften the seed coat and encourage quicker germination. Discard any seeds that float.
 
Sowing the Seeds
 
Timing: The best time to sow Chinese Cedar seeds is in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are consistently mild to warm.
Potting Mix: Use a well-draining seed-raising mix or a general-purpose potting mix. A blend of compost, sand, and perlite works well to ensure good drainage.
Containers: Use seed trays, individual pots, or even deeper "forestry tubes" to accommodate their developing taproot. Ensure good drainage holes.
Sowing: Sow the seeds thinly, about 0.5-1 cm (0.2-0.4 inches) deep, and lightly cover with your potting mix.
Watering: Water thoroughly after sowing to ensure the mix is evenly moist. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period. A fine spray bottle is good for initial watering.
Warmth and Light: Place your pots in a warm location with plenty of bright, indirect sunlight or dappled shade. Optimal germination temperatures are typically around 20-25°C (68-77°F).
 
Germination and Initial Growth
 
Germination Time: Germination can be erratic, usually occurring within 2-6 weeks, but it can sometimes take longer.
Moisture: Continue to keep the soil consistently moist. As seedlings grow, you can slightly reduce watering frequency, allowing the top surface to dry out between waterings.
Light: Ensure seedlings receive good light to prevent them from becoming leggy. As they develop, gradually introduce them to more direct sunlight.
 
Transplanting and Ongoing Care
 
Transplanting: Once seedlings are robust enough (e.g., 10-15 cm / 4-6 inches tall) and have developed a few sets of true leaves, carefully transplant them into larger individual pots.
Hardening Off: If grown indoors, gradually acclimate your young trees to outdoor conditions over a period of 7-10 days before planting them in their final position.
Planting Out: Choose a sunny to part-shade location with well-draining soil. Chinese Cedar is adaptable to a range of soil types but prefers a fertile, loamy soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
Watering (Establishment): Water regularly and deeply for the first 1-2 years after planting to help the tree establish a strong root system.
Watering (Mature): Once established, Chinese Cedar is quite drought-tolerant but will benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods, especially when young.
Fertilizing: You can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring during the first few years to encourage growth.
Pruning: Prune young trees to establish a strong central leader if growing as a specimen tree. For timber or edible shoots, different pruning regimes apply.
Winter Care: Chinese Cedar is deciduous and will lose its leaves in winter. It is quite cold-hardy once established, tolerating a wide range of temperatures. Young plants may benefit from some winter protection in very cold climates.
 
By following these steps, you can successfully grow this intriguing and versatile Chinese Cedar tree, adding a distinctive element to your garden or landscape.