When Do You Plant Bubble Gum Tree Seeds?

If you want to grow a bubble gum tree in your backyard, you need to start with seeds. The bubble gum tree, also known as the Sweetgum tree, is a popular ornamental tree in the United States that produces a spicy, fragrant sap that smells like bubble gum. Growing a bubble gum tree from seed is a great way to bring this wonderful tree into your life, but when should you plant the seeds? Let's find out.

Understanding the Bubble Gum Tree

The bubble gum tree is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 75 feet tall in natural conditions. When grown in the home garden, it typically grows 60 to 70 feet tall and spreads out to a 30-foot canopy. The tree has glossy, star-shaped leaves that can turn a bright scarlet or orange during autumn, making it a beautiful feature in any garden. The bubble gum tree also produces spiky fruit balls that can cause a hazard when fallen on the ground, so it's important to plant it in an open space away from footpaths and driveways.

When to Plant Bubble Gum Tree Seeds

The best time to plant bubble gum tree seeds is in the fall. Plant the seeds in late September or early October when the soil is still warm but the weather is starting to cool down. The seeds need a warm soil temperature to germinate, but they also require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. By planting in the fall, the seeds will experience the cold winter months, and when spring comes, they will be ready to sprout.

How to Plant Bubble Gum Tree Seeds

When planting bubble gum tree seeds, follow these steps:

Collect the seeds from a mature bubble gum tree or buy them from a reputable seed supplier.

Choose a site in your garden that has full sun exposure and is well-draining.

Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 6 to 8 inches and adding compost or other organic matter.

Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart.

Water the seeds immediately after planting.

Apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months.

Caring for Bubble Gum Tree Seedlings

Once the bubble gum tree seedlings emerge, it's important to keep them healthy until they are ready to be transplanted into their permanent position in the garden. Keep the seedlings moist but not waterlogged by watering them regularly. Fertilize them once a month with a balanced fertilizer to help them grow strong root systems. When the seedlings are about 6 inches tall, you can transplant them into their permanent position in the garden. Choose a site with full sun exposure and plenty of room for the tree to grow.

Conclusion

If you want to grow a bubble gum tree in your backyard, the best time to plant the seeds is in the fall. Follow the steps outlined above to plant the seeds and care for the seedlings until they are ready to be transplanted into their permanent position in the garden. With a little patience and care, you can grow a beautiful and fragrant bubble gum tree in your garden that will be a joy to behold for many years to come.