Help with Sassafras Trees

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gasrocks Portage, WI(Zone 5a) May 04, 2012

I just got some seedlings that are growing in a large pot for now. I want to move then to a sunny spot out front. All I read says they prefer acidic soil - opposite of what I have. A quick Google lists many ways of trying to change the soil ph. Pine needles (which I have LOTS of,) coffee grounds, iron sulfate, spaghum moss, etc. What do you suggest I try? I'm ok zone wise and could make a point of keeping them wet when it is dry here but will the soil ph keep them from doing well?

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JCalhoun Saraland, AL(Zone 8b) May 08, 2012

What does your soil test tell you?

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gasrocks Portage, WI(Zone 5a) May 08, 2012

I have a PH of 7.2 in general - bit lower some places, higher others. Sandy soil, no clay.

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bettydee La Grange, TX(Zone 8b) May 09, 2012

Scroll down to Growth Requirements in the enclosed link:
http://www.gardenguides.com/taxonomy/sassafras-sassafras-albidum/
If you can locate a large area that has a pH no higher than 7.2, you might be able to meet it's soil pH requirements. Changing the pH of large areas permanently is not possible. You can change it temporarily,but it is an arduous process and you would always be playing catch-up as the root system grows.

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gasrocks Portage, WI(Zone 5a) May 09, 2012

Cool link, thanks. I have more than one 2 yr old seedling. Perhaps I will try them in different spots. Have my fingers crossed.

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