Also known as giant sequoias, giant redwoods are not fit for small gardens. This is because the giant sequoia grows with age. It is, however, possible to grow your giant redwood tree if the area fits the specifications.
Hardy Zones Where They Grow
The giant redwood tree can be grown outside of their designed climatic conditions but with some modifications. Redwoods are in their natural habitat in hardiness zones nine, but with extra care, it is also possible to grow them in zones 5, 7, and 8.
Mature Height and Width
It is difficult to determine the mature size of a giant redwood tree. Giant redwood trees grow continuously. The tallest giant redwood tree is reportedly 100 feet tall and 13 feet wide. The average growth rate of a giant redwood tree is five feet annually. They can grow as tall as 300 feet in forty years.
Bloom Color and Bloom Season
Their reproductive maturity happens after five or ten years of planting. It is noteworthy that the female and the male reproductive parts of fertilization are found on the same tree. Therefore there needs to be no tree nearby for pollination to occur.
Soil Recommendations
For your giant redwood tree seedling to thrive, the soil should be moderately acidic, with a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. Rotted oak leaves and pine needles make for some of the best acidic compost for the giant redwood tree.
How to Acquire the Giant Redwood Seeds
Like any other tree, giant redwood tree seeds, also known as Sequoia dendron, can be purchased from a nearby nursery. Another alternative is to collect the seeds yourself and plant them. This is, however, not an easy feat as the redwood seeds take years to get produced.
When Should You Plant the Seeds?
You can plant your giant redwood seeds at any time of the year. However, for those in temperate regions, it might be best to plant during early spring. The seedlings also need to be watered consistently for them to grow faster.
How to Plant the Giant Redwood Tree
Before planting, it is advisable to place the seeds in a colder place such as the freezer. This quickens the germination process since the seeds get tricked into ‘thinking’ that winter is over and it’s time for germination.
The seeds also need light to germinate but are very susceptible to drought. The seedlings do well, however, in moist soil. Therefore, this requires you to gently cover the seedlings with a plastic foil while being careful not to drown them in a lot of moisture. They also need to be fully covered in the soil for the germination to occur effectively.
How Long Does Before Germination?
It is important to note that giant redwood trees take a lot of care to germinate. Store-bought seeds, however, have higher germination rates as compared to self-harvested seeds. Additionally, patience is needed during the germination process as the process can occur as early as the first few days of planting to a couple of months.
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