GROWING CONIFERS FROM SEED

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I've found that a mixture of equal parts of soil, garden compost, and coarse organic matter — such as ground bark or chunky peat moss — makes a good potting medium. On the other hand, if the seedlings are planted in a nursery bed (instead of individual containers), you should work the earth well and add plenty of compost or peat moss . . . then plant the conifers about a foot apart, taking care to protect them from bright sun until they're well established. (In areas that experience severe winters, your baby trees should be transplanted directly to a cold frame if separate pots aren't used.)

The best way to insure a crop of healthy evergreens is to keep your seedlings growing rapidly. To do so, you'll have to make sure they get sufficient (but not excessive) water and monthly feedings of half-strength liquid organic fertilizer. (Stronger solutions of plant food may damage the roots.)

Though individual species do grow at differing rates, a young conifer will generally be ready for its permanent growing spot two years after its seed was sown. Once again, it's important to disturb the root ball as little as possible in the transplanting process. When removing plants from a nursery bed, therefore, trench all around each small tree and burrow underneath before attempting to lift it from the soil. If your evergreen has been maturing in an individual pot, just cut the container's sides with a pair of shears before removing the sapling. Finally, be sure to allow the young tree ample room to grow, and give it plenty of tender loving care for at least a year after transplanting.

Growing conifers from seed isn't for the impatient. But if you have the interest, the time, and a willingness to let nature work its magic (with just a little assistance along the way), you can reap the rewards of nurturing a tree which — as the wind whispers through its needles — will scent your days and soothe your nights.

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