Black Locust Seed

Black locust is an interesting tree and there are many reasons why you may wish to grow them. For one the wood is very rot resistant and commonly used as fence posts.  Some folks are testing black locust boards against treated lumber and finding that locust is at least comparable if not longer lasting.

This species is in the legume family and therefore is able to pair with rhizobium bacteria in the soil to fix nitrogen. Some, but not all, black locust seedlings produce  thorns. The trees also sucker regularly allowing them to create a dense thicket. This can be easily controlled by mowing.

Livestock adore the leaves and will happily snack on any limbs you cut for them. These trees respond well to coppicing and grow back with vigor. It is also important to note that the flowers on this tree are very beautiful and edible, they look similar to pea or bean flowers. Bees also love the flowers. If you're going to eat them be sure to get them fresh, right after they open. Black locust is native to the eastern united stated although the exact extent of its native range is not completely understood.

This tree has been cultivated extensively and exists often outside of its native range. Due to its aggressive shallow rooting habit, ability to fix nitrogen, and its preference for full sun black locust is a great tree for planting in disturbed areas. This tree is also very well suited for erosion control. The wood burns very hot and is a great choice for firewood. Black locust grows exceptionally fast. It is not uncommon for trees to grow upwards of 6 feet tall from seed in their first year. This makes them extremely fun to grow!

** Roughly 50 seeds per packet. Black locust do not require cold stratification to germinate although I have had luck fall planting them outdoors. The tried and true way to germinate them is scarification with hot water or acid. We have only ever used the hot water treatment. After danger of frost, bring water to a boil and remove from heat, once bubbling stops add black locust seeds to the water, let them soak in this water for 12-24 hours. You should notice them swell up and increase size.

At this point they can be planted into nursery beds or pots or direct planted where you want them to grow. Cover with a lite dusting of soil or mulch. Do not burry them deeper than 1/4 inch. Keep the soil moist as they germinate. 

Do not that black locust is considered invasive in some areas outside its native range. **