How to Grow Jelly Bush from Seed: A Complete Guide
 
Jelly Bush seeds are an excellent choice for a low-maintenance native garden. Learn how to propagate this versatile shrub, also known as Manuka or Tea Tree, with our detailed growing instructions. Follow these steps to successfully germinate and grow your own Leptospermum scoparium, a beautiful and hardy plant that attracts pollinators and can be used for hedging, screening, and more.
 
Step-by-Step Growing Instructions
 
1. Seed Collection and Preparation:
Jelly Bush seeds are tiny and can be collected from the woody capsules on the plant. Seeds are often most viable when collected in mid-autumn from recently dried pods.
To improve germination rates, some seeds benefit from a "smoke treatment" which mimics the conditions of a wildfire, a common occurrence in their native habitat. You can achieve this by using commercially available smoke water or by placing a small amount of smoldering twigs and leaves in a container with your seed tray.
Another method to try is a simple hot water treatment: place seeds in a container, cover with boiling water, and let them soak overnight. Discard any seeds that float.
2. Sowing the Seeds:
Use a well-draining seed-raising mix in a pot or seed tray. Adding up to 20% propagating sand can further improve drainage.
The seeds are very small, so sprinkle them thinly over the surface of the soil. Gently press them down, but do not bury them deeply, as they require light to germinate.
Lightly moisten the surface with a spray bottle to avoid disturbing the seeds.
3. Providing the Right Environment:
Place the seed tray in a warm location with filtered sunlight or semi-shade. The ideal germination temperature is between 20-25°C (68-77°F). A greenhouse or a plastic wrap cover can help maintain warmth and humidity. A heat mat can also be used if needed.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use a fine mist sprayer to water so you don't displace the seeds. The top layer of soil should not be allowed to completely dry out.
4. Germination and Early Growth:
Germination typically occurs within 2-5 weeks. Be patient, as it can take longer, especially in cooler conditions.
Once the tiny seedlings have sprouted, gradually move the tray to a sunnier position, but protect them from the harsh afternoon sun while they are young.
Continue to water gently with a fine spray.
5. Transplanting Seedlings:
When the seedlings are large enough to handle (usually with two sets of leaves), you can carefully transplant them into individual pots.
Use a well-draining native plant potting mix. The plant thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soils with low nutrient content, so avoid using rich topsoil or heavy manures.
Keep the young plants in a sheltered location with dappled light for the first month to allow their roots to establish.
6. Final Planting and Ongoing Care:
Choose a final location that receives full sun to light shade and has well-drained soil. This plant is a pioneer species that adapts well to various conditions, including coastal gardens.
Once established, Jelly Bush is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. However, new plants will need regular watering to develop a strong root system.
Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Lightly prune your plant after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage a bushier growth habit. Avoid cutting into old wood, as it may not regrow.
 
200+ Seeds per Pack