What are the odds of getting a Shea Tree to grow in South Carolina, USA? Temperatures here in SC range from mid 30s (occasionally around 40) Centigrade in the summer to -10 at the coldest days of the winter. There is usually consistent rain so that oaks, peaches, and apples grow easily. The soil is mostly mildly acidic clay and sand. There is a eucalyptus tree in our yard which grows fine but not terrifically.
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2Looking at the range on the linked wikipedia article, it does not appear to be frost tolerant (tropical Africa only) - so I think you will have problems growing it outside in the Carolinas.– winwaedCommented Jul 8, 2011 at 18:19
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2 Answers
In gardening (nearly) everything is worth a try (IMHO). If you're successful you will learn a lot! and enjoy great satisfaction. Even if you're unsuccessful you will still end up learning a lot! from the experience.
That said, the tree you wish to grow is of good (final) size, won't be able to bring it inside during your cold winter months, and will take many years before producing nuts that can he harvested (if that is your ultimate goal). Also your growing conditions are going to be very! different from its native habitat "West Africa".
Before making a final decision on whether you wish to invest the time into such a project, I would seek some expert advice from horticulturists that are located in your specific area of the country. Since moving to the USA I have found local (cooperative) extension offices to be an excellent place to start:
Contact - South Carolina Cooperative Extension
Here's a (other) reason why you might want to contact your county (local) and/or state government or local Cooperative Extension Office and seek their advice:
- I've heard on more than one gardening podcast I listen to regularly, that some county and/or state governments have actually made it unlawful to introduce certain plants, tress, etc, into the environment they govern, especially those they deem non-natives.
I am not for one minute saying your particular situation, or county and/or state government falls under the above. I'm just making you aware of something I heard one more than one occasion.
answered Jul 8, 2011 at 18:00
I am also interested in growing shea trees in the non native environment in order to preserve them and save them from extinction.
It does require many steps, permits, the right location and environment adjustment, if possible. Anything is possible but you do need to work a lot and it would have to be with consideration for future generations, who will take care of the trees so that they are safe and alive and respected.
I do have several seeds growing at home as a learning trial but to plant them out is still a big question.
