How to Plant a Bee Bee Tree

Planting a bee bee tree can be a great way to enhance the natural beauty of your garden while also supporting bee populations. Bee bee trees, also known as Tetradium daniellii or Evodia daniellii, are native to China and offer a range of benefits to both bees and humans. Here are some tips on how to plant a bee bee tree in your garden.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in planting a bee bee tree is selecting the right location. Bee bee trees thrive in full sun or partial shade and prefer well-drained, fertile soil. It's important to choose a spot that is sheltered from strong winds and frost pockets.

It's also important to consider the size of the tree when choosing a location. Bee bee trees can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide, so make sure there is enough space for the tree to grow and mature.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting, prepare the soil by digging a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the container the tree is in. Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.

Make sure the planting hole is deep enough so that the graft union – the place where the tree was grafted onto the rootstock – is planted below ground level. This helps prevent the tree from drying out and dying in dry conditions.

Planting the Tree

Once you have prepared the soil, it's time to plant the tree. Gently remove the tree from its container and loosen any circling roots. Place the tree in the planting hole and backfill the hole with the soil mixture until it is level with the surrounding ground.

Water the tree thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

Caring for the Tree

To ensure the success of your bee bee tree, it's important to provide proper care. Water the tree regularly and deeply during the first growing season to help it establish a healthy root system. In subsequent years, the tree will only need watering during periods of drought.

Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain its shape. Bee bee trees are relatively pest and disease-free but may attract aphids. If you notice an aphid infestation, spray the affected branches with a solution of soapy water or insecticidal soap.

The Benefits of Planting a Bee Bee Tree

Planting a bee bee tree offers a range of benefits to both bees and humans. The tree's fragrant white flowers are attractive to bees, providing an important source of food for these pollinators. The flowers also have a pleasant citrus scent, making the tree a popular choice for gardeners who want to add fragrance to their garden.

Bee bee trees are also valued for their medicinal properties. The tree's bark and leaves have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a range of ailments, including respiratory infections and digestive issues.

Conclusion

Planting a bee bee tree is a simple and rewarding way to support bee populations while also adding beauty and fragrance to your garden. By choosing the right location, preparing the soil, and providing proper care, you can enjoy the many benefits of this beautiful and useful tree.