Dilbergia sissoo, popularly known as Simsupa या Simsapa tree is medium sized deciduous tree that can grow to 30 metres tall. If you want to know how can I propagate a Simsupa tree then you are on the right page. 

How can I propagate a Simsupa tree?

This tree is widely cultivated in the forests of Southern Asia and tropical Africa because of the medicinal importance. Especially Ayurveda considers its plant parts very helpful in Skin diseases, Emaciation, Worm infestation, Blood disorders, Ulcers, etc.

Beside these medicinal benefits the wood of this tree is also used for construction, as a fuel, teeth brushing, etc.

The common name of this tree also varies from place to place that’s there is a confusion, I know few common names that are popular. In Hindi it is known as Shisham or Sissu, in Kannada it is known as Agaru, Birade, Karimara, etc. 

In English it is also known as Shisham, North Indian Rosewood, etc. in Sanskrit it is known as Kapila-sinsapa, Pipala, etc. This amazingly beneficial tree is native to India.

How can I propagate a Simsupa tree?

To propagate this tree the first step is to know the climate of your area because this tree grows in tropical and sub tropical regions, mainly in India and Africa. Spring is considered to be the best season for plantation of Simsupa tree.

Mode of Propagation

Simsupa tree can be propagated by root suckers or through seeds. In forest area seeds are sown directly just before first monsoon rains in the ground soil. After the first and second monsoon rains the new plant grows to 90 to 120 centimetres tall.

Selection of Place and soil

Simsupa tree should not be planted in waterlogged soil or near any river or pond as it can cause fungal infections in the tree. Select a spot that is not much wet and a little dry. If your place has alluvial soil that is mixed with gravel or have sandy loam soil then it is ideal.

Propagation through seeds

Soak the seeds in water for at least 48 hours before sowing it in the soil. Dig a hole in the soil and place your seed. Cover it with soil and apply water gently. Plant more than 5 seeds at a distance of at least 15 feet from each other to ensure good growth in later stages of the growth cycle.

If there is no rain then keep applying water when the top layer of the soil seems dry. Within 1 to 3 weeks you will notice new seedlings coming out of the ground. Protect the young seedlings from the direct sunlight.

But when it develops in a mature tree then there is no need of shade, also in younger stages it can survive under direct sunlight. 

If you want to transplant the Simsupa tree directly in your farm or forest area the make sure that the new plant have short tap root system and you can start transplanting in the spring season for better success rate.