Tree Seeds

Growing trees by seed is a very rewarding experience.  I have been planting Oak trees now for a couple of years and have had some great results. Inspired by these results, I have also started planting other trees from seed to increase the abundance of  the farm.

Saltbush native to Australia, saltbush is a great source of fodder for animals once established.  Like many Australian natives, Saltbush is hardy and can tolerate poor soil conditions.  It is my aim to use both Saltbush and Tagasaste in my chicken feed for the future.

Tagasaste or sometimes called tree lucerne is also used as a fodder crop for animals due to its high protein content.  It is used as a windbreak and also a regenerating source of firewood due to coppicing after being cut.

Wattle tree (Acacia)  I have see this amazing tree work its magic wildly around the farm.  Fast growing but short lived (around fifteen years), this pioneer tree has a role of preparing the land for native trees.  It shades and puts nitrogen into the ground allowing the native gum trees to establish under this protection.  When the wattle tree dies, the native trees are very strong and able to thrive on their own for hundreds of years.  The flowers also provide a great source of nectar for honeybees.

Even if it is only one tree to plant in the backyard, it is well worth the time to plant them from seed and watch this miracle grow.