Grow stick (Gliricidia sepium)

Also known as: Fence post tree, Aaron's rod

Gliricidia sepium, also known as "Mother of Cocoa" or "Gliricidia," originates from tropical regions like Mexico and Central America. Traditionally, it has been utilized to offer shade for cocoa plants. As a nitrogen-fixing legume, it enhances soil fertility. Additionally, it serves multiple purposes including providing livestock fodder, firewood, and material for live fencing. Its foliage and branches are used as green manure, and it has applications in traditional pest control methods, including as an ingredient in rat poison.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Grow stick

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

10 m to 12 m

Spread

8 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2 cm to 15 cm

Flower Color

Pink Purple Red

Images of Grow stick

Quickly Identify Grow stick

To identify Gliricidia sepium, look for its distinctive pinnate leaves with 7-15 leaflets, and its pink or white flowers. The flowers are typically arranged in dense racemes.

Scientific Classification of Grow stick

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fabales

Family

Legume

Genus

Gliricidia

Species

Grow stick

Planting and Growing of Grow stick

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Grow stick?

When watering Gliricidia sepium, it's crucial to ensure the soil is thoroughly moistened but not waterlogged. Aim for about 1000 ml per watering session to keep the soil moderately damp. This ensures that moisture reaches the root zone where it's most needed, without oversaturating the soil.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Grow stick? ›

What should I do if my Grow stick is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Grow stick? ›

How to save an overwatered Grow stick? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Grow stick?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 12 hours

Gliricidia sepium benefits most from full sun to partial sun, ideally enjoying 6 to 12 hours of light. Proper sunlight enhances flowering and foliage health, reinforcing its natural vibrancy.

What is the best lighting condition for Gliricidia sepium? ›

How can I ensure it receives ideal lighting? ›

What are the benefits of ideal sunlight? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Grow stick?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 86℉

Gliricidia sepium thrives best within a temperature range of 68 to 86°F. This range provides the optimal conditions for growth, ensuring that enzymatic and physiological processes within the plant occur efficiently. Consistent exposure to this temperature range supports healthy foliage and flowering, contributing to the overall vigor and productivity of the plant.

What Soil is Best for Grow stick?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Gliricidia sepium requires soils that offer excellent drainage. Proper drainage prevents waterlogging, which can stunt the plant's growth and lead to root rot. Well-drained soils ensure healthy root development and promote vigorous growth. The plant thrives in soils with pH levels ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. Maintaining these pH levels ensures optimal availability of essential nutrients, improving the overall health and productivity of Gliricidia sepium. Soil rich in organic matter supports the growth of Gliricidia sepium by providing essential nutrients. A fertile soil environment contributes to lush foliage and robust flowering, enhancing the plant's aesthetic and practical appeal.

How to Fertilize Grow stick?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Gliricidia sepium, known for its hardy nature, requires a balanced approach to fertilization. During the growing season, apply around 50 grams of balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer per plant every three months. Liquid fertilizers should be diluted at a ratio of 1:10 before application to avoid root burn.

How to Prune Grow stick?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Use sharp loppers or pruning shears to make clean cuts that will heal quickly. This helps minimize the risk of infection and ensures healthier regrowth of foliage. Prune your Gliricidia sepium during its dormant periods in spring or summer for optimal regrowth. Avoid autumn pruning as it could hinder the plant’s ability to prepare for winter dormancy. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Grow stick plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

Harvest seeds from mature Gliricidia sepium pods when they dry and turn brown. Ensure the seeds are fully matured to guarantee a higher germination rate.

Prepare a soil mix rich in organic matter with well-draining properties to support healthy seedling growth. A mix of compost, sand, and perlite is ideal.

Plant the seeds shallowly in the prepared soil mix, covering them lightly. Ensure they are spaced adequately to prevent overcrowding and support healthy root development.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Grow stick plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repotting should occur when roots outgrow the current pot, indicated by roots emerging from drainage holes or roots becoming dense and bound. Spring and early summer are ideal times, as the plant is actively growing, enabling it to recover quickly from any stress.

Choose a pot that is one size larger with good drainage holes. This ensures enough space for root development without excessive moisture retention. Selecting the right pot promotes optimal growth conditions and helps prevent root rot, fostering a healthy plant.

Opt for a well-draining loamy mixture, enriched with organic matter for nutrients. Such soil provides excellent drainage and aeration, crucial for avoiding waterlogged conditions that can damage roots. Healthy soil ensures robust growth and strong root systems.

Toxicity

Ingestion, Contact

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.