Seed Propagation

Large ‘bean’ pods are a distinguishing characteristic of the Catalpa tree.Seeds can be harvested and used for propagation.Large crops of pods appear every 2 to 3 years.As is turns out, this is the most common means of propagation for this tree.

Picture From: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources and The Ohio State University Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, 2002

Late winter is the best time to collect seeds.Although, it should be noted that in the fall, the pods will split and release the winged seeds to the ground.Leaving them until after break gives the them time to cure as the Catalpa is dehiscent.Spring time, when the temperature is 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit, is the best time to plant the seeds.Alternatives are using cold frames or greenhouse planting.If all goes well, the seeds should germinate in two weeks.

Cutting

Catalpa trees can be propagated from cuttings taken during the summer.Semi-hard and softwood cuttings can be taken from non-flowering shoots.Studies have shown that the best cuttings come from first year cuttings.Expected rooting percentages go from almost 100% for first year, to 77% in third year [Gardner].

Potting

Plants obtained from other sources may begin in pots.Planting should occur in the spring or early fall.Keeping the tree in a sheltered area will help to protect the large leaves from damage.Again, these trees are tolerant to dry conditions as well as moist conditions.Pruning can be kept to a minimum.Training a younger tree to a straight central leader will help produce the classical shape and keep weak branches to a minimum.During the course of its life, a Catalpa will require light pruning of weakened branches.

Grafting

Catalpas can also be propagated by grafting.This is a recommended procedure if you have a specialty variety and do not want to risk cross-pollination from related but different varieties.By grafting, you can also preserve some unique characteristics between varieties.For example, one resource cites the availability of “Mop Top Trees”.These trees are smaller trees with topiary like bushy tops.In the case of a Catalpa “Mop Top”, dwarf Catalpa is grafted onto a seedling say northern Catalpa.

From: hellohello.com

As a landscaping plant, the small space requirements and low maintenance make it a nice alternative to a “true” variety.
 

NEXT: Resources Table of Contents BACK: Introduction Christopher.Besemann@ndsu.nodak.edu March 2003