Starting a Tree

pulsar2121

I am trying to grow some Russian Olive trees. (I know the standard: Why would you want a tree like that? I like the color of the leaves and I have very good soil so it won't be any problem if it is a resource hog.) I have picked 20 olives and I have taken out all of the pits for growing. I am going to start them in a pot, but I was wondering how deep should I put the pits in the dirt. And is there any other things that are needed to get these trees growing(ex: extra heat or light?) And is there a better way to start these trees? Thanks for the help mates.

bsearcey

The seeds probably need to go through a dormancy period (i.e. cold spell). You could put them in your fridge for a few weeks to trick them and then plant. Or just leave them in the pot over the winter.

Brent Ferris

According to Michael Dirr - Seed should be stratified for 60-90 days at 41'F; seed is the preferred method of propagation (vs cuttings)
Russian Olive typically grows on poor soils, generally full sun. Can fix nitrogen in soil, on poor sites, tolerates pollution well, and prob some salt, commonly planted along highways in Southern Ontario - Canada. Once established, little care needed. It is more of a bush than a tree. If grows to tree stature -- about 30 feet, often falls over or is blown over, since seems to have poor root development -- or roots more typical of a shrub.