How to Plant Sausage Tree Seeds

The sausage tree (Kigelia africana) is a unique, deciduous tree native to Africa. It is known for its large, sausage-shaped fruit and beautiful, bell-shaped flowers. If you are interested in growing sausage trees, you can plant the seeds yourself. Here are the steps to follow when planting sausage tree seeds:

Gather the Seeds

The first step in planting sausage tree seeds is to gather them. You can find sausage tree seeds inside the fruit, which is usually ripe from September to November. Make sure the fruit is fully ripe before you harvest it, as unripe fruit will not contain viable seeds. Once you have harvested the fruit, cut it open and remove the seeds. Rinse the seeds in clean water to remove any remaining fruit pulp.

Prepare the Soil

Sausage trees prefer well-drained soils with a pH between 6.5 to 7.5. You can improve the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure. If you are planting multiple seeds, space them at least 10 feet apart. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, so make sure to water the soil before planting the seeds.

Plant the Seeds

You can plant sausage tree seeds directly in the ground or in a container. If you are planting in the ground, dig a hole that is about twice as deep as the seed and about four times wider. Place the seed in the hole and cover it with soil, gently firming it down. If you are planting in a container, choose a deep pot with drainage holes. Fill the pot with moist soil and plant the seed about an inch deep. Cover the pot with plastic wrap to help retain moisture.

Provide Adequate Care

Sausage tree seeds need consistent moisture to germinate, so make sure to water the soil as needed. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as excess water may cause the seed to rot. Sausage trees prefer full sun, so choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Once the seedlings emerge, you may need to thin them out or transplant them to a new location if they are too close together.

Conclusion

Planting sausage tree seeds is a rewarding experience that can yield beautiful trees with unique fruit and flowers. Follow the steps above to successfully plant sausage tree seeds and ensure that they receive the care they need to thrive.