How to Plant Sassafras Tree

Sassafras is a charming deciduous tree that’s native to North America. It is mainly grown for its vibrant foliage that turns bright yellow, orange, and red in the fall. Its aromatic bark, roots, and leaves have also been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. If you want to add a touch of beauty and fragrance to your garden, here’s how to plant sassafras tree:

Choosing the Right Site

Sassafras trees thrive in well-drained soil that’s rich in nutrients. They prefer slightly acidic to alkaline soil with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. They also require full sun to partial shade to grow healthy and strong. You should choose a site that gets at least four to six hours of sunlight daily and is protected from strong winds.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting, you should prepare the soil. Start by removing any weeds or grass around the planting site. Sassafras trees have shallow roots, so it’s imperative to remove any obstacles that may impede its growth. You should also loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and amend it with organic matter like compost, peat moss, or aged manure. This will increase soil fertility and drainage while improving the soil’s structure.

Planting Sassafras Tree

Sassafras trees can be planted either from seeds or young saplings. If you prefer to plant from seeds, you should collect fresh seeds in late fall and store them in a cool, dry place until spring. You should then plant them in a seed bed in late winter or early spring, about 1/2 inch deep in rows that are spaced at least 12 inches apart. Once the seeds germinate, you can transplant the saplings when they are about 6 inches tall to their permanent location.

If you opt for young saplings, you should purchase them from a reliable nursery or garden center. Make sure to inspect the roots before purchasing to ensure they are healthy, white, and free of any diseases or pests. When planting, dig a hole that’s twice the size of the root ball and loosen the soil at the bottom. Then, place the sapling in the hole, fill it with soil, and tamp it gently. You should water the sapling immediately and keep the soil evenly moist until it establishes itself.

Maintaining Sassafras Tree

Sassafras trees require little maintenance once they are established. They need to be watered regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells. You should also mulch around the base of the tree to conserve soil moisture and control weeds. Sassafras trees are prone to root rot, so you should avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage. You should also prune the tree occasionally to remove any dead or damaged branches and maintain its shape.

In conclusion, planting sassafras tree is a rewarding and enjoyable experience that requires a little knowledge and effort. With proper care, your tree will grow tall and strong and provide you with its beautiful foliage and sweet fragrance for many years to come.