Growing Instructions for Tree Wisteria (Bolusanthus speciosa) from Seed
 
Tree Wisteria thrives in warm, sunny climates and can be grown from seed with patience. Here's how to sow and care for your bonsai seeds:
 
Seed Preparation
 
Scarification: Tree Wisteria seeds have a hard outer coat that inhibits germination. To overcome this, you'll need to scarify them.
Method 1 (Nicking): Carefully use a small file, sandpaper, or nail clippers to nick or abrade the seed coat, taking care not to damage the embryo inside. Look for a lighter-colored spot, often on the rounder edge, to nick.
Method 2 (Hot Water): Place the seeds in a cup and pour hot (not boiling) water over them. Let them soak for 24-48 hours. The seeds should swell. If they don't, carefully scarify them as described above and repeat the hot water soak.
Soaking: After scarification (or if using the hot water method for scarification), soak the seeds in room-temperature water for another 24 hours. Discard any seeds that float, as they are likely not viable.
 
Sowing the Seeds
 
Timing: The best time to sow Tree Wisteria seeds is during the warmer months, ideally in spring or early summer, when temperatures are consistently warm.
Potting Mix: Use a well-draining seed-raising mix. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand is suitable.
Containers: Use small pots or seed trays with good drainage holes.
Sowing: Plant the seeds about 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 inches) deep.
Watering: Water thoroughly after sowing, ensuring the mix is evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Warmth and Light: Place the pots in a warm location with plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. Consistent temperatures around 20-30°C (68-86°F) are ideal for germination. A propagation mat can be beneficial.
 
Germination and Initial Growth
 
Germination Time: Germination can be variable, typically occurring within 2-6 weeks, but sometimes longer.
Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs. Once seedlings emerge, reduce watering slightly, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings.
Airflow: Ensure good air circulation around the seedlings to prevent fungal diseases.
Light: Provide bright light to prevent leggy growth.
 
Transplanting and Ongoing Care for Bonsai
 
Transplanting: Once seedlings are robust enough, typically when they have a few sets of true leaves and are several inches tall, carefully transplant them into individual pots.
Sunlight: Tree Wisteria prefers full sun once established. Gradually acclimate young plants to direct sunlight.
Watering: Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during cooler months.
Soil: For bonsai, use a well-draining bonsai soil mix.
Fertilizing: Feed your bonsai regularly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Pruning and Training: Begin formative pruning and wiring once the plant is established and showing good growth. Tree Wisteria responds well to pruning and can develop excellent branch ramification.
Pest and Disease: Generally, Tree Wisteria is quite resilient, but keep an eye out for common pests like aphids or scale.
Winter Care: In cooler, sub-tropical regions, young plants may benefit from some protection from the coldest winter nights. More mature plants can typically tolerate light frosts once established.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to growing a beautiful Tree Wisteria bonsai that will be a focal point in your collection!
 
Packet contains 10 seeds.
 
Care and propagation notes included.