Hi Marcia,

I have a couple of Northern Catalpas that I started from seed last year as well as a few Chinese Catalpas that I started this year. I started too many from seed, but I read one helpful hint that suggested that since they are not fully hardy in our zone, maybe grow a few of them for a couple of years and then keep the one that "seems hardier". Anyways, for winter I sunk the pots into the ground. As it was their first winter, I mulched around them with peat moss, leaves, then snow.

They are late to leaf out in spring, so I thought they didnÂt make it, but they were fine (though it was a mild winter.) I read to expect some winter damage as they are quick growing and donÂt really harden off that well for our winters. There are some catalpas growing along the river behind the MB provincial legislature. They are about 12 to 15 feet high and multi-branched, probably due to winter injury. Still, it amazed me that they survive. They almost remind me of those huge lilac shrubs that get out of control in peopleÂs yards but they had a more open habit, not as dense, and larger leaves. They even had last yearÂs seed pods (bean shaped) hanging on them.

Anyways, I have concluded that this plant can grow extremely quick if in good soil. Last year one of my plants, in a pot with good professional potting mix, grew 3 feet high. Another one was planted in poor clay soil in the ground and only grew a foot high.

Also, for potted ones I think they reach a point where they basically stop growing, if rootbound (though I guess thatÂs no different than any other plant.) I had two similar size Chinese catalpas in plastic beer cups. The one I planted into the ground (amended the soil) is now about 20 inches tall and getting bigger leaves. The one that is still in the cup is about 8 inches and struggling. I have to transplant him, if only to stop him from drying out every day (rootbound)

Anyways, the fun part in all this is that they are fast growing and easy to grow from seed. If they donÂt make it, itÂs not like I paid a lot for the seed (bought my seed at Gardens North).

Glen

I knew they weren't entirely hardy but it would be neat to have one or two - a conversation piece! I think i'll put them into larger pots and sink them into the ground. Let you know next year how they do!

Thanks, Glen!