Where to Plant a Monkey Puzzle Tree

The monkey puzzle tree, also known as araucaria araucana, is a fascinating tree that is native to South America. It is believed to have lived during the time of the dinosaurs and is one of the oldest living tree species on earth. The name "monkey puzzle" comes from the tree's spiky branches, which were thought to be almost impossible for monkeys to climb. If you are interested in planting a monkey puzzle tree, here are some tips on where to plant it:

Climate

The monkey puzzle tree thrives in cool, temperate climates. It prefers areas with mild summers and cool winters, and it can tolerate frost and snow. In its native habitat, the tree grows in the Andes Mountains, where temperatures can drop below freezing. If you live in a climate that is too warm or tropical, the monkey puzzle tree may not survive. You should also avoid planting it in areas with high humidity or where summers are dry. Ideal areas for planting include coastal regions of California and the Pacific Northwest, as well as parts of Europe and New Zealand.

Soil

The monkey puzzle tree prefers well-draining soil that is acidic in nature. It grows best in soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter. If you have clay soil, mix in plenty of organic matter to improve drainage. The tree is not particularly fussy about soil type, however it doesn't like alkaline soil. If you're not sure about your soil's pH, you can easily test it with a kit from a garden center.

Light

The monkey puzzle tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. If possible, plant it in a sunny location away from large trees or buildings that may shade it. If you live in a particularly hot area, consider planting it in a location that offers afternoon shade to protect it from scorching sun.

Spacing

Monkey puzzle trees can grow quite large, up to 80 feet tall with a spread of up to 40 feet. When planting, make sure to give it enough space to grow to its full size. Plant it at least 10 feet away from buildings or other trees, and allow plenty of room for its branches to spread. You should also avoid planting it near sidewalks or driveways, as its spiky branches can be a hazard for people walking by.

Care and Maintenance

The monkey puzzle tree does not require much care once it is established. It does not need to be pruned often, although you may want to remove any dead or damaged branches. Water it regularly during its first year to help it get established, and after that, it should be able to tolerate drought fairly well. Fertilize it once or twice a year with a general-purpose fertilizer to help it thrive. If you live in an area that gets heavy snow, you may need to brush off the snow from the tree's branches to prevent them from breaking.

In conclusion, if you live in a cool, temperate climate with well-draining, acidic soil, and plenty of sun, a monkey puzzle tree could make a beautiful addition to your garden or landscape. With proper care and maintenance, this fascinating tree can live for centuries, adding beauty and interest to your surroundings. Do your research and talk to a local gardening expert to determine if a monkey puzzle tree is right for your location.