Trees - Mimosa
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  (September) I had at one time a great Mimosa Tree, but it somehow died. My question is: there are all kinds of these trees around, and I am wondering if I could harvest some of the seed pods now hanging onto the trees, and grow a new tree from these seed pods? I would really like another tree.

  I know there are many fans of mimosa trees, but do remember their limitations. Mimosa's often die unexpectedly from a disease called mimosa wilt -- actually Fusarium wilt. They are healthy and growing one day, and dead almost instantly, when the disease kicks in. Usually after they die, they send up hundreds of sprouts which are root suckers, that make it even more of a nuisance. Now, to answer your question. They can be grown from seed, but the seeds have a hard outer seed coat which must be treated before it can sprout. The process is called scarification and it basically means you have to break the outer coating. Soaking in acid for 30 minutes is the recommended treatment, but you could also try sanding them with sandpaper, and then soaking in water overnight to aid in germination. In my opinion, you would be better off choosing another tree.

  I have several mimosa trees I planted the spring before last. I would like to know when would be a safe time to prune? When should I prune my forsythia and flowering quince also?

  Mimosa’s rarely need much pruning, (although, some would recommend a chain saw at the base). Mimosa trees often grow rapidly and therefore, are short-lived. Any pruning would be done as needed. Forsythia and flowering quince are spring-blooming plants and should be pruned immediately after flowering. The flower buds should be set now for next springs blooms, so avoid any pruning at this time.

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