How to Grow Hills Salmon Gum from Seed: A Complete Guide
 
Hills Salmon Gum seeds are an excellent choice for cultivating a beautiful and hardy native tree. Known for its striking smooth bark, which peels away to reveal shades of pink, orange, and white, this Eucalyptus species is a standout ornamental. This guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to successfully germinate and grow this magnificent tree from fresh seeds.
 
Step-by-Step Growing Instructions
 
1. Seed Preparation and Sowing:
The tiny Hills Salmon Gum seeds are best sown directly on the surface of a seed-raising mix.
Use a well-draining seed-raising mix in a pot or seed tray. A mix specifically designed for native plants is ideal, as it typically has lower nutrient content.
The seeds do not require stratification or any pre-treatment. Sprinkle them thinly over the surface of the soil.
Gently press the seeds down to ensure good contact with the soil, but do not bury them, as they require light for germination.
Lightly moisten the surface of the soil with a fine mist spray.
2. Providing the Right Environment:
Place the seed tray in a warm location with good air circulation and filtered sunlight. An ideal temperature for germination is between 20-25°C (68-77°F).
A greenhouse, a sheltered spot on a patio, or a location with morning sun and afternoon shade is perfect.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. The top layer of the mix should not be allowed to dry out completely during the germination period.
3. Germination and Early Growth:
Germination can be fast, with the first seedlings appearing within 1-3 weeks.
Once the seedlings have sprouted, continue to keep the soil moist and move the tray to a location with more direct sun, but protect them from the harsh midday heat while they are very young.
The seedlings will be very small and delicate at first. Continue to water with a fine spray to avoid disturbing their roots.
4. Transplanting Seedlings:
When the seedlings are about 5-10 cm tall and have developed a strong root system, they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots.
Use a high-quality native plant potting mix.
Be gentle during the transplanting process to avoid damaging the delicate roots.
Place the transplanted seedlings in a sheltered, semi-shady location for a few weeks to allow them to acclimatize before moving them to a sunnier spot.
5. Final Planting and Ongoing Care:
Choose a final planting location in full sun with well-drained soil. Hills Salmon Gum is very hardy and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy soils.
Water the young tree regularly during its first few years to help it establish a deep and robust root system.
Once established, it is a drought-tolerant species and requires minimal watering.
This species does not typically require heavy pruning, but you can remove any dead or crossing branches to maintain its form.
This tree is an excellent choice for a larger garden or parkland setting due to its size and stunning ornamental bark.