Have you been considering an update to your
yard or garden? How about growing a chaste tree? Not only are they
beautiful, but they have numerous other benefits that civilizations have been
taking advantage of for thousands of years. Best of all, they are really easy
to grow, so even if you’re new to the whole gardening thing, you should be successful.
What is a Chaste Tree?
The Chaste is known for its large blooms of bright blue flowers (although some
varieties may be purple, pink, or even white). When first planted it takes the
shape of a large hardy bush, but quickly grows into a multi-trunked tree about
15-20 feet high. It’s seeds and leaves have a long history of being used as an
herbal remedy to support women’s health, digestive issues, and even as a potion
to help curb the libido (hence the name)!
Where to Plant a Chaste
Growing a chaste tree
is simple in comparison to many other blooming options. They are the perfect
front yard addition, beautiful to look at, easy to maintain and can serve a
variety of different purposes depending on how you plant them:
●
As a single focal point in your
yard.
●
Grouped closely together to create
a natural border or hedge. Just keep it pruned low to your desired height.
●
Used to line a driveway or road
onto your property.
What
the Chaste Needs:
●
Full Sun (at least 6 hours a day)
●
Well-drained soil
●
Regular moisture until established
Directions for Growing a Chaste Tree
●
Dig a hole at least 3 times as
wide and deep as the root ball
●
Mix a healthy amount of the dug up
native soil with some nutrient rich topsoil. Line the bottom of the hole with a
shovel full of the mixture.
●
Drench the root ball thoroughly
with water and carefully loosen the feeder roots so they take to the ground
easier.
●
Place the root ball into the hole
and begin filling the space around it with the soil mixture.
●
Once the tree is planted, water it
well and keep it moist daily until established. Avoid overwatering or letting
water pool around it.
●
Cover the planting area with mulch
or pinestraw to conserve moisture and discourage weeds to grow there.
When growing a chaste tree, you can promote
optimal blooms by keeping it well-pruned. In the winter cut back
the limbs close to trunk to encourage regrowth in the summer. Are you growing a
chaste in your yard? Tell us your tips for keeping it in top shape in the
comments below!
###
Photo by Neslihan Gunaydin on Unsplash