How to Start Mimosa Trees
Mimosa trees (Albizia julibrissin), also known as silk trees, are a fast-growing species introduced from China and cultivated as an ornamental landscape plant. Favored for its fragrant pink blossoms and fern-like greenery, mimosa is a deciduous, small- to medium-sized tree that can reach 30 to 40 feet tall at maturity. Mimosa trees are very fast growing and will gain a mature height in 10 to 15 years. They provide spring flowers, summer shade and winter interest to cottage gardens and urban landscapes in United States hardiness zones 6 to 9. Mimosa trees can be started from seeds or cuttings. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Gather seeds in the fall when the seed pods mature and start to drop. Mimosa seeds require stratification prior to germination. Nick with a sharp paring knife or scratch the seed with a nail file.
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Plant in a sunny location by covering with a 1/2 inch of soil.
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Water lightly. Mimosa trees thrive in all types of soil, require little fertilization and very little water.
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Start mimosa trees from seedlings if that is an option. Select seedlings that are well-established, healthy and free of insect infestation. Dig up new growth plants that are from 8 to 12 inches tall.
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Transplant new seedlings to a sunny location in the garden. Water lightly.
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Tips & Warnings
Mimosa trees are quite messy and short lived. There are many other trees that will grow in the same location. Think twice before you add the invasive mimosa tree to your home landscape.
Mimosa trees can grow in a variety of soil conditions, they produce abundant seed crops and sprout when damaged. Mimosa is a vigorous competitor to native shrubs and trees in open meadows or forest edges. Thick stands of mimosa can greatly reduce the sunlight and nutrients available for other plants and are considered invasive in many southeastern locations. Plant with caution.
