r/australianplants • u/sadmama1961 • 3d ago

Wollemi pine question

I have a wollemi pine in south west Victoria. Last year had male and female pine cones so I'm hoping there was some pollination. The female cones have pumped up nicely over the last 16 months or so and tips are starting to go a brownie rust colour. Does anyone know how to tell when the cones are ready to try and harvest seeds. From what I've read the seeds drop quickly once they're ready and I don't want to risk missing any that might be there. Second question. This year there are female cones and no male. Wondering if the cones are taking energy from the tree and would it be better to remove them? Thank you in advance for any advice

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u/sloppyrock 3d ago

Consider contacting the Botanic gardens in Sydney or Mt Tomah if possible. They've had a lot of experience growing them.

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u/sadmama1961 3d ago

Thank you. That's a great suggestion

5

u/Lesbiannun 3d ago

Firstly, bag your cones. A fine mesh bag tied over the cone will make sure you catch the seeds. Now is around the time they would normally drop. Summer and into early autumn is when you normally get seed drop.

I would not worry about removing cones, if the tree is happy and healthy then let it do it’s thing.

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u/sadmama1961 3d ago

Thank you. I did wonder if the bags would be a good idea. Off to buy them now 🙂