How to Plant Bitter Kola Tree

Bitter kola tree, also known as Garcinia kola, is a fruit-bearing tree found mostly in the rainforests of West Africa. It is famous for its medicinal properties and is widely used in traditional medicine to cure various ailments. The tree can grow up to 40 feet, and its fruit has a bitter taste and distinctive aroma. If you are looking to plant a bitter kola tree, here are some steps you can follow:

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Before planting your bitter kola tree, you need to choose a suitable location where it can thrive. The tree requires well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight to grow. It can grow in a wide range of soils, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. Ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter and has a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The location should also be sheltered from strong winds and frost.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Once you have chosen the right location, it's time to prepare the soil for planting. Begin by removing any weeds or grass from the site. Dig a hole that is three times the depth and width of the root ball of the seedling you wish to plant. Mix some organic matter like compost, well-aged animal manure, or peat moss with the soil to improve its fertility. Add some rock phosphate or bone meal to the soil to provide a source of phosphorus that the tree needs for optimal growth.

Step 3: Plant the Bitter Kola Tree

After preparing the soil, it's time to plant the bitter kola tree. Gently remove the seedling from the pot or container and inspect the roots for any signs of damage. Place the tree in the center of the hole and backfill with the amended soil, pressing it down lightly to ensure that there are no air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly to help it settle in and promote root growth. If you're planting more than one tree, space them at least 25 feet apart to enable them to have ample space to grow.

Step 4: Care for the Bitter Kola Tree

After planting, the bitter kola tree requires regular care and maintenance to ensure optimal growth and fruit production. Water the tree regularly, especially during the hot and dry season. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the tree to help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds. The tree requires occasional pruning to remove dead or damaged wood and promote healthy growth. Fertilize the tree twice a year, applying a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer around the drip line of the tree.

Step 5: Harvest the Bitter Kola Fruit

The ripe bitter kola fruit is yellow-brown or red-brown and has a bitter, astringent taste. It's important to wait for the fruit to mature fully before harvesting it. To harvest the fruit, cut it off the tree using a sharp knife or pair of scissors. The fruit can be consumed fresh, dried, or powdered to be used in traditional medicine.

In conclusion, planting and caring for a bitter kola tree is easy if you follow the right procedures. Choose the right location, prepare the soil, plant the tree, care for it, and harvest the fruit. With these steps, you can enjoy the medicinal benefits of bitter kola and marvel at the beautiful tree in your garden.