How to Plant Frankincense Tree

Frankincense tree, commonly known as Boswellia, is a small deciduous tree that is native to northern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, where it has been valued for its aromatic resin for thousands of years. The resin is used for incense, perfume, and medicinal purposes. Planting frankincense tree in your garden can be a rewarding experience, but you need to follow the right steps to ensure success.

Choose the Right Location

The first step to planting frankincense tree is choosing the right location. The tree requires a warm, dry climate and well-draining soil. Ideally, it should be planted in a location that gets full sun exposure. The tree is also drought-tolerant and can survive in poor soil conditions. However, it is best to avoid planting it in areas that are prone to frost damage.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting frankincense tree, prepare the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure. This will improve soil fertility and drainage. The tree also prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. You can test your soil pH using a soil test kit from a garden center or nursery. If your soil is alkaline, you can lower the pH by adding sulfur or peat moss.

Plant the Tree

Once you have prepared the soil, it's time to plant the frankincense tree. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Remove the tree from the pot or burlap and loosen any tangled roots. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping it down firmly around the roots. Water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil and remove any air pockets.

Care for the Tree

Frankincense tree requires minimal care once it is established. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring. Prune the tree in the winter to remove any dead or damaged branches.

Harvest the Resin

Frankincense tree resin is harvested by making incisions in the bark of the tree. The resin flows out of the cuts and hardens into small tears or droplets. This process is called tapping and should be done during the dry season when the resin is most abundant. It takes about three months for the resin to harden before it can be collected. The resin can be used for incense, perfume, and medicinal purposes.

Planting frankincense tree can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these steps, you can enjoy the beauty and aroma of this ancient tree for years to come.