Wisteria sinensis

Germination

Sow under glass in spring or autumn. Prior to sowing chip then soak seed for 24 hours in warm water. Sow 2mm deep into moist, well-drained seed compost. Place into a clear plastic bag or cover the tray with a sheet of clear plastic. Place in a cold frame or greenhouse. Keep the soil misted with water, but not wet. Ideal temp 18-29°C. Germination takes 30-60 days approx. If germination does not occur either cold stratify, move to 4°C, for a few weeks, then return to warmth, or leave seed under glass over winter allowing natural cold to offer ideal conditions for germination to occur as the weather warms the following spring. Once germinated admit air. When seedlings have 2 true leaves transplant to individual pots. Plant out when there is at least 45 days until the next expected frost.

Growing

Choose your planting spot carefully. This is a large climber and is ideally grown against a house wall. Prefers a fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Will tolerate partial sun. Plants will dry out quickly, regular watering is required during dry spells. Feed each spring using a suitable fertiliser, a rose or flowering shrub fertiliser works well. Can be container grown and trained as a free-standing standard. Can be grown up into the canopy of a supporting tree, pergola or arch.

Cultivation

Will require regular pruning. Shorten new growth in August and February to improve flowering. In August cut back the whippy green shoots to 5-6 leaves after flowering ceases. In February, while the plant is leafless and dormant, cut back the same growths to 2-3 buds.