With alittle , reddish-brown bud , the clove (syzygium aromaticum) may be a slow-growing but long-lived tree–they can easily survive to their 100th birthday and beyond. The clove trunk is understood for its smooth bark and either green or grayish-yellow aromatic foliage. The pungent clove spice that’s utilized in an array of meals, drinks, and desserts may be a results of harvesting the tree’s dried, unopened flower buds.

The name of the clove is believed to be derived from either the Latin word “clavus” or French word “cloud,” and that they are native to the Moluccas and therefore the Moluccas. Today, the clove is usually grown in India, Jamaica, West Indies , Brazil, Sumatra, and other tropical climates.

The clove can grow to fifteen to 30 feet tall and it’s long leaves and white flowers.

Clove Tree Care

After planting, the clove will begin blossoming within six to 10 years and can reach full maturity (and produce the simplest harvest) at the age of 15 to twenty. Since these trees require moist soil, you’ll improve soil conditions by covering the freshly planted seeds with a plastic sheet after planting.

Cloves are quite delicate and can grow fairly slowly; the seed germination process will take about six weeks. it’ll take about four to 6 months to reap the crop from the buds (when they’re but two centimeters). The optimal harvesting time is when the clove buds change from a green to slightly pink color. Harvesting may be a very delicate process, because the quality of yield are often destroyed if branches are tilted or broken.

Light

Clove trees will grow best full sun to partial shade.

Water

These plants require continuous water. Some gardeners choose a drip irrigation system for best results, particularly during the summer months when the plants may require additional watering. Just make certain that the soil doesn’t become waterlogged or too soggy, as these conditions can cause plant disease. The clove would require the foremost frequent watering in its first three to four years of growth.

Soil

As long as your soil has good drainage, the clove plant will thrive in rich, loamy soil (preferably with organic matter).

Temperature and Humidity

The clove plant prefers slightly cooler temperatures with ample rain, which can help its flowers grow and produce the very best yield. However, they are doing require either humid sub-tropical or tropical climates to grow–the temperature must remain above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fertilizer

Cloves will grow and produce best when given regular fertilization. Organic manure is often applied from May through June. within the early fall months, fertilizers are often applied in shallow trenches dug around the plant.

Propagating Cloves

Sowing seeds is that the commonest method of propagating clove trees, but they will even be propagated via cutting.

It’s best to aim propagation within the middle of the summer, and seeds should be planted immediately. After fruits are allowed to ripen on the tree, they’re going to naturally fall and their seeds can either be soaked in water overnight or sown directly into the soil.

Recently harvested seeds will grow best, as if they become dried out they’re less likely to germinate.

Pruning

The clove won’t require extensive pruning, though its branches are often cropped to the specified height after harvesting.

Growing in Containers

Clove plants are often grown in containers, though they’re going to not grow as tall as when planted outdoors. Containers should be a minimum of 18 inches in diameter and have a correct system.

The pot or container are often filled about two-thirds full with moist (but not soggy) soil, and seeds are often placed directly on top of the soil. If a clove seed is already rooted, then they will be gently planted below the surface of the soil.

The container should be kept during a bright spot with access to indirect sunlight, preferably during a room with a temperature that is still consistently between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Common Pests/Diseases

Though clove trees aren’t related to any particular pest problems, they will be vulnerable to issues like sprouted wilt, leaf spot, root rot, scale, and mealybugs.