Bittersweet Planting Times
- Bittersweet is best planted in the fall. Like most plants, the dormant plant responds the best to transplant from pot to ground or from one pot to another. This gives the roots time to establish themselves in the new soil during the winter, ensuring that the new growth in the spring will be supported by a well-spread root system.
Wait until the fruits dry and open to release their seeds before transplanting. If the vine is very long, trim it back to about a foot, cutting just above a leaf node or small bump in the vine. This ensures the new growth won't be stunted in the spring.
Plant seeds in the fall, also. Bittersweet requires a cold season to germinate, like many other fruiting perennials. Planting is best done before the first frost, when the nights become chilly. The ground is still loose and easy to dig, but most plants are dormant and annuals have died off. If you want to germinate your bittersweet and start it inside, place seeds in the freezer in a plastic bag for about 90 days, then move them to the refrigerator until they sprout roots. Plant them in seedling trays and transplant them in the spring after the ground thaws and there is no hint of frost in the air. Young bittersweet must not be allowed to freeze; this will kill almost all young plants. - Plant bittersweet in poor soil; its adaptability and voracious growth rate help it grow in places other plants will not. This also prevents the bittersweet from getting out of control. Bittersweet can grow in shade, but prefers full sun. If you want fruit from your bittersweet, full sun will help it produce a bumper crop. Plant bittersweet plants several yards apart so to prevent them from choking each other.
Bittersweets like moist feet, not soaking but not quite dry, either. However, they are drought resistant and can survive through dry conditions. If you are having a drought and can only use a certain amount of water, water your bittersweets last. Otherwise, they don't need hand watering. Rainfall should be enough.
