**Peppermint Tree / Willow Myrtle (*Agonis flexuosa*) - 100 Seeds for a Distinctive Native Feature**
Bring the unique elegance and delightful fragrance of the Peppermint Tree, also known as Willow Myrtle, to your garden. *Agonis flexuosa* is a beautiful evergreen native, celebrated for its gracefully weeping foliage, attractive reddish new growth, and clusters of small, five-petalled white flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The leaves release a refreshing peppermint scent when crushed, adding an aromatic dimension to your landscape.
Perfect as a feature tree, a screening plant, or even trained as a windbreak, these seeds offer a chance to cultivate a resilient and visually appealing addition that thrives in a variety of conditions, including coastal and drier environments.
**Growing Instructions:**
**1. Sowing the Seeds:**
Peppermint Tree seeds are fine and require a well-draining, sandy seed-raising mix. Prepare shallow trays or pots with your chosen mix.
Lightly moisten the soil. Scatter the tiny seeds evenly over the surface. Do not cover the seeds with soil, as they require light for germination. You can gently press them into the surface to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
**2. Germination Environment:**
Place the trays in a warm, bright location that receives indirect sunlight. Avoid direct, intense sun, which can dry out the delicate seeds. Ideal germination temperatures are consistently between 20-28°C (68-82°F).
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. A fine misting bottle is ideal for watering to avoid disturbing the small seeds. Covering the tray with a clear lid or plastic wrap can help maintain humidity, but ensure good ventilation to prevent fungal issues. Germination can be variable, typically occurring within 3-8 weeks.
**3. Care of Seedlings:**
Once seedlings emerge, ensure they receive ample bright, indirect light. If light levels are low, seedlings may become leggy.
Continue to maintain consistent soil moisture. As the seedlings grow larger, gradually reduce watering frequency, allowing the surface of the soil to dry slightly between waterings to encourage stronger root development. Ensure good air circulation to prevent damping-off.
**4. Transplanting:**
When seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle (typically 5-10 cm tall), carefully transplant them into individual pots (e.g., 7-10 cm diameter). Use a well-draining native plant potting mix or a general-purpose mix amended with extra sand or perlite.
Handle the seedlings by their leaves or root ball, avoiding crushing the delicate stem. Water lightly after transplanting.
**5. Hardening Off and Permanent Location:**
Before planting outdoors permanently, harden off your young plants over a period of 1-2 weeks. Gradually expose them to outdoor conditions, starting with a shaded, protected area and slowly increasing their exposure to direct sunlight and wind.
*Agonis flexuosa* is well-suited to the climate of Brisbane. Choose a sunny to lightly shaded location with well-draining soil. It tolerates a wide range of soil types, including sandy and poorer soils, but dislikes heavy, waterlogged conditions. It is also quite tolerant of coastal conditions and periods of dryness once established.
Planting in spring or early autumn generally allows the plants to establish before extreme heat or cooler periods. Mulch around the base of the young plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
With its graceful form, fragrant foliage, and hardy nature, the Peppermint Tree will become a cherished and distinctive feature in your garden, providing beauty and a touch of the bush for many years.
The packet contains 100 seeds.