The silk tree, also known as the sleeping tree, is considered one of the most imposing trees of all. And guess what? It's also easy to grow.
Whereas the silk tree (Albizia julibrissin) used to be popular almost exclusively as a container plant, numerous hobby gardeners are now trying to plant them out in the garden with success. The special thing about the plant is that it convinces with pink flowers during the day, which close at night and give the impression of sleeping. That's where her second name comes from - the sleeping tree.
The impressive tree is very easy to care for, but there are still a few things to consider when putting it out in the garden. If you follow all the tips, nothing stands in the way of successful cultivation.
➜ Optimal planting time
In principle, the silk tree can be planted all year round. However, it is advisable to wait until late spring.
After the ice saints in May, conditions are best for root growth and you have until next winter to take frost protection measures.
➜ Suitable soil
A nutrient-rich mixture of mature compost and fresh garden soil is ideal for the silk tree. Add some gravel or sand to the soil to improve water permeability. This optimization is particularly recommended for soils with a high clay content and that compact quickly.
➜ Ideal location
Plant your silk tree in a bright, preferably full sun spot. Partially shaded locations are accepted, but the silk tree will then develop more slowly and will probably not be as strong. Windbreaks in the form of a building or a single wall are beneficial but not essential.
Necessary planting distance
Silk trees are heart-roots, which can grow relatively close together without the root strands getting in the way. If you plant several silk trees, a planting distance of half the growth width is sufficient. When aligning the planting line, also make sure that the saplingstake away from each other as little light as possible.
➜ Reliable winter protection
You should first plant young silk trees in tubs and get used to the cold over the course of several winters. The risk of loss outdoors is then significantly lower. Adult silk trees generally tolerate temperatures down to -15 °C. Nevertheless, solid winter protection makes sense, since you can never be sure that a cold snap will not bring significantly lower temperatures with it. How to protect your silk tree in the garden from severe frost:
- Cover the tree disc tightly with leaves and mulch and also with brushwood
- Protect the trunk and strong branches with mats made of natural materials such as jute, coconut or straw
- Wrap thin branches and twigs with light garden fleece
- Use days without frost for watering