How to Grow Red Sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus)? Planting Methods and Care Key Points

Red sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus) has low soil requirements, so it can be planted in ordinary soil. From March to May, plant its seedlings in pits fertilized with calcium-magnesium-phosphate compound fertilizer as a base fertilizer, then cover with soil and firm it down. Apply compound fertilizer 2 times each year as a top dressing, and do the weeding and pruning work before fertilizing. At the seedling stage and for young trees, pay attention to preventing and controlling anthracnose and black spot disease. However, when it is kept as a potted plant, pay attention to the following points:

1. Soil

Red sandalwood is not strict about soil, but when grown in a pot, it is best to use loose, fertile soil with good drainage and aeration.

2. Water

Although red sandalwood has a well-developed root system, too much standing water in the pot can easily cause the old leaves to drop. Normally, water it once every 2 to 3 days, and water until water flows out from the bottom of the pot.

3. Environment

Red sandalwood likes light, so it can be placed on a balcony with good ventilation for care. In the north, where the air is dry and the water and soil tend to be alkaline, you can regularly water with ferrous sulfate to improve yellow leaves caused by iron deficiency. Red sandalwood likes a warm and humid environment, so you can spray water on the leaves to increase air humidity.

Besides its high ornamental value, red sandalwood is also a good material for making furniture and handicrafts.