Leptospermum polygalifolium "Tantoon" Seeds, Yellow Tea Tree

Sowing **Leptospermum polygalifolium**, an Australian ornamental plant also known as Polynesian tea, is a simple and effective method for growing this hardy and decorative shrub. Here's a step-by-step guide to successfully sowing **Leptospermum polygalifolium**:

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### **Steps for sowing Leptospermum polygalifolium**

#### **1. Sowing period:**
- **Spring**: From March to May, when temperatures warm up.
- **Autumn**: Possible in regions with a mild climate, for natural germination in spring.

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#### **2. Harvesting seeds:**
- The seeds are found in woody capsules that remain on the plant after flowering. Harvest them when they are completely dry.

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#### **3. Seed preparation:**
**Leptospermum polygalifolium** seeds do not require any special treatment to germinate, but soaking can speed up germination.

##### **Pre-processing (optional)**:
1. **Soaking**:
- Soak the seeds in warm water for **12 to 24 hours** to hydrate them.

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#### **4. Preparation of the substrate or soil:**
- **Substrate type**:
- Use a well-drained mix of seed starting soil, sand, and perlite (2:1:1).
- **Preparation in open ground**:
- Prepare a light, well-drained, and slightly acidic soil. Add sand or gravel to improve drainage if necessary.
- **pH**:
- Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7).

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#### **5. Sowing the seeds:**

##### **In pots or boxes (recommended method)**:
1. **Filling**:
- Fill the pots or boxes with the prepared substrate.
2. **Seed Arrangement**:
- Sow the seeds on the surface without covering them or with a very thin layer of substrate (they need light to germinate).
3. **Watering**:
- Lightly moisten with a spray bottle.
4. **Placement**:
- Place the pots in a bright place, at a constant temperature of **18°C to 22°C**.

##### **In the ground:**
1. **Soil preparation**:
- Loosen the soil to a depth of 15 cm and remove weeds.
2. **Seed Arrangement**:
- Sow directly on the surface and press down lightly to ensure good contact with the soil.
3. **Watering**:
- Moisten lightly after sowing to activate germination.

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#### **6. Germination conditions:**
- **Ideal temperature**:
- Between **18°C and 22°C**.
- **Humidity** :
- Keep the substrate or soil slightly moist, but not excessively so as to avoid rotting.
- **Germination time**:
- Seeds usually germinate in **2 to 4 weeks**, but it can take up to **6 weeks** depending on conditions.

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#### **7. Care after germination:**
1. **Thinning**:
- When the seedlings reach **5 cm**, thin them out to leave approximately **10 to 15 cm** between each plant.
2. **Watering**:
- Water moderately to maintain light humidity without soaking the substrate.
3. **Light**:
- Provide bright, indirect light to encourage healthy growth.

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#### **8. Transplanting (for potted seedlings)**:
- **When to transplant**:
- When the young plants measure **10 cm** and have several well-developed leaves.
- **Method** :
- Transplant into individual pots or into the ground, spacing **30 to 50 cm**.

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#### **9. Final planting:**
1. **Location**:
- Choose a location in full sun or partial shade with well-drained soil.
2. **Spacing**:
- Leave **1 to 2 meters** between plants to allow them to develop well.

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#### **10. Long-term maintenance:**
1. **Watering**:
- Once established, **Leptospermum polygalifolium** tolerates drought well. Water only in case of prolonged drought.
2. **Size**:
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a balanced shape and stimulate new growth.
3. **Fertilization**:
- Avoid fertilizers rich in phosphates, as this plant prefers poor soils.
4. **Winter protection**:
- In frost-prone areas, apply mulch around young plants to protect the roots.

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### **Additional Tips:**
1. **Resistant plant**:
- Adapted to dry climates and poor soils, this plant is ideal for Mediterranean or xerophilous gardens.
2. **Ornamental use**:
- Perfect for hedges, borders, or as an isolated shrub.
3. **Ecological attractiveness**:
- Flowers attract bees and other pollinators, contributing to biodiversity.

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### **Conclusion :**
Sowing **Leptospermum polygalifolium** is a rewarding way to introduce this hardy, ornamental shrub into your garden. With minimal maintenance, it will provide delicate blooms and attractive foliage, while promoting biodiversity. 🌱🌸