Halesia carolina

Germination

Can be sown indoors at any time. Best to sow into a cold frame in autumn. Sow into moist, well-drained seed compost. Place in a cold frame. Allow autumn warmth followed by natural winter cold to offer idea conditions for germination to occur in spring as the weather warms. Indoors, sow seed and place at 18-22°C for 2-4 weeks then cold stratify. Move to -4-+4°C for 4-6 weeks then return to warmth for germination. Even under ideal conditions germination can be erratic. Several cycles of cold/ warmth may be required for germination. Do not discard seed tray prematurely. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and grow on under glass for their 1st winter. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed.

Growing

Prefers a lime-free, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade. Low maintenance.

Cultivation

Pruning group 1. No routine pruning necessary. Prune if needed in late winter or early spring. After pruning mulch and feed. Propagate by seed or softwood cuttings.