How to Plant Monkey Puzzle Tree

Monkey puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana) is a majestic evergreen tree native to Chile and Argentina. It got its name because monkeys would have a hard time climbing its dense branches. Monkey puzzle trees can grow up to 80 feet tall and live for over 1000 years. If you want to plant a monkey puzzle tree in your garden, here's how to do it.

Choosing the Right Location

Monkey puzzle trees prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They don't tolerate waterlogged soil or salty air. Therefore, you should choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has fertile, well-draining soil. Avoid planting monkey puzzle trees in low-lying areas or close to the sea.

Avoid planting monkey puzzle trees close to buildings or power lines. They have a broad canopy and need plenty of space to spread their branches. As they grow tall, they may interfere with overhead lines or roofs.

Planting the Tree

The best time to plant monkey puzzle trees is in the fall or spring. Before planting, dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Remove any weeds, debris, or rocks from the planting hole. Mix some compost or aged manure with the soil to improve its fertility.

Remove the monkey puzzle tree from its container and check its root system. If the roots are tightly bound, loosen them gently with your fingers or a garden fork. Place the tree in the planting hole, making sure the root collar is level with the soil line. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently with your foot. Water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

Caring for the Tree

Monkey puzzle trees don't require much care once established. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during rainy periods. Don't overwater the tree, as it may develop root rot. Fertilize the tree in spring and fall with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.

Prune the monkey puzzle tree only to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Don't prune the tree for shape or size, as it has a naturally symmetrical form. If the tree gets too big for the space, consider transplanting it to a larger location rather than pruning it down.

Conclusion

Planting and caring for a monkey puzzle tree can be a rewarding experience. This ancient conifer is a true heirloom that will impress future generations with its beauty and longevity. As long as you choose the right location, plant the tree correctly, and provide minimal care, your monkey puzzle tree will thrive and become a centerpiece of your landscape.