QuestionWe just bought Sapphire Dragon Tree seeds off http://www.seedsandmore-store.com/catalog.php/seedsandmore/dt/pd11332/Sapphire_D...
I live in western Kentucky zone 6. I was wondering just in general how I should plant this tree indoors.Or if I should just wait til the spring to plant it outdoors. Please Help :) Thank You.
AnswerHi Beau,
Thanx for your question. This tree is more commonly known as the Royal Emperess Tree and it is hardy to the warmer regions of Zone 5. It blooms in the spring like some magnolias do before the leaves are visible. The tree is considered invasive in some parts of the USA.
Here is a link with a brief overview of the tree Pawlonia tomentosa.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paulownia_tomentosa
Start the seeds in January in seed flats with regular potting soil which is moist but not soggy. Put the seeds on top of the soil and press on them to make good contact with the soil but do not cover with soil. The seeds need light to germinate. You will need to suspend a 40-watt shop light over the seeds and keep it on for 3 weeks. The seeds should have started sprouting after 3 weeks at 75F. No cooler than 70F and no warmer than 85F. Transfer seedlings to separate pots when they are large enough to handle by gently pricking them out of the soil with a pencil. Take the seedlings outdoors after the last frost and place them in the shade protected from direct sunlight, wind, rain, hail, etc. for about 10 days. After that, plant in full sun. I hope this helps.
Tom