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<p data-mce-fragment="1">SEEDS (6pcs/bag)</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <strong data-mce-fragment="1">Common names:</strong> Himalayan Cherry Prinsepia, Chinese Prinsepia, Himalayan Wild Cherry <strong data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1">Scientific name:</strong> <em data-mce-fragment="1">Prinsepia utilis</em><em data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1"></em> <strong data-mce-fragment="1">Family:</strong> Rosaceae</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <strong><span>Plant history &amp; use:</span></strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The Himalayan Cherry Principesia is a hardy shrub with edible berries, which are very popular and often eaten as a snack by the inhabitants of its native areas. The shrub is often valued for its ability to cope with conditions of lower temperatures.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> Origin is traced to the Himalayas and Manchuria.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The fruits are also often used to make juice, jams, marmalades and other preserves.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The seeds are used to produce an oil that is used in cooking (Fern, K.).</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Oil extracted from the seeds is also applied to muscle pain caused by overexertion (Chopra. RN et al.). The oil is also applied to the forehead and temples to treat and relieve colds (Manandhar. NP). The fruit is used in Chinese medicine.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The seed contains about 21% fatty acids (Chopra. RN et al.). In addition to being edible, it can also be used for lighting.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The oil cake (what is left after pressing the oil from the seeds) is used for washing clothes (Manandhar. NP).</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> A deep purple color from the fruits is also used to paint windows and walls.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The Himalayan Cherry Principesia is grown as a hedge in the Himalayas. The shrub has an extensive root system and is used in erosion prevention to bind the soil.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The Himalayan Cherry Principesia is also valued for its ability to attract pollinators.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <strong data-mce-fragment="1">Culture:</strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><span>A thorny shrub that often stays under 2 meters in height - however, it can grow up to 5 m. At 5-10 years of age, the shrub is considered to have reached its maximum height.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <span>Does best in slightly moist, but well-drained soil. Preferably place in a sunny, open spot with plenty of room for the shrub to spread out. The shrub can grow to about 2.5 metres wide when fully grown.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> Blooms late winter and early spring. Autumn flowers may produce ripe fruit the following spring.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The Himalayan Cherry Principesia is self-fertile and pollinated by insects.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <span data-mce-fragment="1">The fruits are purple-brown to deep dark blue to black-purple, oblong, about 8mm in diameter. They ripen in autumn and often survive the entire winter intact, in their natural environment.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <strong data-mce-fragment="1">Sowing:</strong></p> <p> NOTE: These seeds have been stratified (cold period) and can therefore be sown immediately after receipt.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Sow the seeds in moist soil. Cover with a thin layer (about 1 cm) of soil. Keep the seeds moist. It is advisable to cover the seeds with plastic with air holes, or sow in a mini greenhouse.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <strong data-mce-fragment="1">Features:</strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> Year: Perennial<br data-mce-fragment="1"> Growing position: sun<br data-mce-fragment="1"> Height: 1-5 m<br data-mce-fragment="1"> Germination time: 2-12 weeks<br> <a href="https://tradgardsdags.nu/pages/vaxtzoner-svenska-usda-europa" title="Growing zones - Swedish zones &amp; USDA zones in Sweden and the rest of the world" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #4e991d;">USDA zone</span></strong></a> : 6-9<br data-mce-fragment="1"> Growing zone (rough translation): 1-5<br></p>

<p> </p> <p>SEEDS (10 pcs/bag)</p> <p><strong>Common names:</strong><span> Butterfly Pea 'Blue Sky',</span> Light Blue Climbing Pea, Light Blue <meta charset="utf-8"><span>K</span>litoria, Light Blue Butterfly Pea <br><strong>Scientific name:</strong><em><span> Clitoria <meta charset="utf-8">ternatea </span><br></em><strong>Family:</strong><span> Fabaceae</span><span> </span></p> <p><strong><span>Plant history &amp; use:</span></strong></p> <p>Light blue Butterfly Pea with double flowers.</p> <p>A large climbing plant whose flowers have a light blue color that easily releases when hot water is added.</p> <p>Used to color food, sweets, and drinks.</p> <p>In Asia, tea is made directly from the flowers. Sometimes it is mixed with lemongrass, honey, and lime.</p> <p>Butterfly Pea is also used in traditional medicine as a relaxant and memory enhancer.</p> <p>The normally blue-colored drink shifts to a light purple color if something sour, such as lemon, is added. This is due to pH changes in the composition. Similarly, Butterfly Pea flowers are sometimes used to make blue gin that turns purple when tonic is added.</p> <p>As a comparison, one can think that tea made from Butterfly Pea is used in Asia in the same way we use chamomile tea in Sweden.</p> <p>Like the <span style="color: #4e991d;"><strong><a style="color: #4e991d;" href="https://tradgardsdags.nu/products/goabona-vingbona-psophocarpus-tetragonolobus" title="Goaböna / Vingböna (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus)" target="_blank">Goa bean</a></strong></span>, Butterfly Pea is regenerative for the soil as it fixes nitrogen from air pores in the soil and works well as a ground cover crop. However, Butterfly Pea is generally not hardy in Sweden, unlike the Goa bean.</p> <p><strong>Cultivation:</strong></p> <p>Butterfly Pea is a sun-loving, fast-growing plant that quickly establishes itself if it has something to climb on.</p> <p>Growing in pots is recommended if you want it to become perennial in Sweden. Overwinter frost-free.</p> <p>Can grow in both moist and dry soils. Thrives surprisingly well in heavy clay soils. For pot cultivation, a humus-rich soil with good drainage should be used.</p> <p>Pinch branches for a bushier growth habit.</p> <p><strong>Sowing:</strong></p> <p>Start indoors early in the year, or sow outdoors in April-May.</p> <p>Soak the seeds for 1 day in advance. Sow in moist soil and preferably cover with plastic with small air holes to maintain good moisture.</p> <p><meta charset="utf-8">Seeds from Butterfly Pea often germinate irregularly; one seed can sometimes sprout a whole month earlier than another seed in the same sowing. If you want more control over the whole process, Butterfly Pea seeds are easy to germinate on a piece of moist paper. Place the paper in, for example, a food container with the lid slightly ajar – keep moist. Now you can easily see when each seed starts to sprout and gradually pick out seed by seed and sow in a small pot with soil.</p> <p><strong>Characteristics:</strong><br></p> <p>Life span: Perennial <br>Light: sun <br>Height: 150-300 cm <br>Germination time: 10-20 days</p>

<p>Seed tray with several plugs – ideal for raising many seedlings at the same time.</p>

<p>Sturdy plastic pot measuring 11 x 11 x 21.5 cm – perfect for growing indoors, in a greenhouse, or outdoors.</p> <p>Sold in packs of 10</p>

<p>Sturdy plastic pot measuring 15 x 15 x 20 cm – perfect for growing indoors, in a greenhouse, or outdoors.</p> <p>Sold in packs of 10</p>

<p>Stable plastic pot in various sizes – perfect for growing indoors, in a greenhouse, or outdoors.</p>

<p>Stable plastic pot in various sizes – perfect for growing indoors, in a greenhouse, or outdoors.</p>

<p>Sturdy plastic pot measuring 9 x 9 x 14 cm – perfect for growing indoors, in a greenhouse, or outdoors.</p> <p>Sold in packs of 10</p>

<p>Seed tray with several plugs – ideal for raising many seedlings at the same time.</p>

<p><strong>Autumn silver bush / Olive willow in various sizes: </strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Height: 40–60 cm</strong></li> <li><strong>Height: 140–170 cm - Standard trees with round crown &lt;- PICKUP ONLY IN STORE</strong></li> </ul> <p><strong>Common names:</strong> Autumn silver bush, Olive willow<br><strong>Scientific name:</strong> <em>Elaeagnus × ebbingei</em><br><strong>Family:</strong> Elaeagnaceae</p> <h4>Plant history & use</h4> <p>The autumn silver bush is a hybrid between <em>Elaeagnus macrophylla</em> and <em>Elaeagnus pungens</em> – developed to combine evergreen foliage, hardiness, and rapid growth. The leaves are silver-green underneath and give the bush an olive-like appearance, which has earned it the nickname "olive willow".</p> <p>The bush blooms discreetly in autumn with small, fragrant flowers followed by edible, red berries in late summer or autumn. The berries can be eaten fresh when fully ripe or used for jam, jelly, or wine. They are rich in vitamin C and have traditionally been used in simple herbal medicine. The plant also fixes nitrogen and improves the soil around it.</p> <h4>Cultivation</h4> <p>Thrives in sun to partial shade and is tolerant of wind, salt, and drought. Grows quickly and is excellent as a free-growing hedge, privacy screen, or solitary bush. Tolerates pruning well and can be shaped as needed. Best overwintered in plant zone 1, but with a sheltered location it can also survive in zone 2, especially once established. Evergreen leaves may suffer frost damage in severe cold – the bush will, however, produce new leaves in spring in such cases.</p> <h4>Characteristics</h4> <p><strong>Longevity:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Light conditions:</strong> Sun to partial shade<br><strong>Height:</strong> 2–4 meters (can be kept lower with pruning)<br><strong>Plant zone:</strong> 1–2<br><strong>Flowering:</strong> September–October<br><strong>Fruit:</strong> Sweet red berries ripen during spring and summer months<br></p>

<p> <meta charset="utf-8"><span data-mce-fragment="1">Hydroponics is a growing trend among growers, especially in cities. It is a form of cultivation that suits many because you cultivate without soil - only with water and nutrients - and therefore particularly suitable for those who do not have their own plot of land but still want to grow their own food. It's a cultivation that doesn't require a lot of space or maintenance, plus you have your fresh spices or vegetables close at hand when you're cooking.</span><br data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1"> <span data-mce-fragment="1">In this guide, you will learn everything about how to go about growing in water, what systems are available and how you can build them yourself. It provides answers to questions such as: Is it just as useful? Does it taste as good? Is hydroponics organic? Which vegetables work best?</span><br data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1"> <span data-mce-fragment="1">If you feel like going in depth, there is a section for the advanced grower, where you will learn all about different types of light and nutrition.</span><br data-mce-fragment="1"> <br data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1">Hydroponic cultivation works both indoors and outdoors, on balconies and patios. You can grow basically anything: herbs, lettuce, berries, tomatoes, chillies or vegetables such as squash, cucumber, beans, peas and cabbage.</span></p> <p></p> <table id="ctl00_ctl00_m_m_ctl02_gv" border="1" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" class="infoTable" rules="all"> <caption>Facts</caption> <tbody> <tr class="infoRow" style="height: 16px;"> <td style="height: 16px;">Media type</td> <td style="height: 16px;">Bound</td> </tr> <tr class="infoAltRow" style="height: 16px;"> <td style="height: 16px;">Publishers</td> <td style="height: 16px;">Norstedts Publishing</td> </tr> <tr class="infoRow" style="height: 16px;"> <td style="height: 16px;">Released</td> <td style="height: 16px;">20190118</td> </tr> <tr class="infoAltRow" style="height: 16px;"> <td style="height: 16px;">Page count</td> <td style="height: 16px;">148</td> </tr> <tr class="infoRow" style="height: 16px;"> <td style="height: 16px;">Language</td> <td style="height: 16px;">Swedish</td> </tr> <tr class="infoAltRow" style="height: 16px;"> <td style="height: 16px;">EAN</td> <td style="height: 16px;">9789113088655</td> </tr> <tr class="infoRow" style="height: 0.430588px;"> <td style="height: 0.430588px;">Weight</td> <td style="height: 0.430588px;">648 g</td> </tr> </tbody> </table>

<p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1">SEEDS (25 pcs/bag)</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><strong>Common name: </strong><span data-mce-fragment="1">Ashwagandha, Indian Ginseng</span><br><strong>Scientific name:</strong><em> Withania somnifera<br></em><strong>Family:</strong> <span data-mce-fragment="1">Nightshade family</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><strong><span data-mce-fragment="1">Plant history & use:</span></strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal plant that has been used for thousands of years, mainly for physical and mental fatigue. Ashwagandha’s balancing properties are believed to even out any imbalances in the body, among other things by lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol. <br><br>The root also has anti-inflammatory properties and is considered calming for the nervous system. <br><br>Reported effects from using Ashwagandha include improved mental ability in terms of memory and concentration as well as higher energy levels.<br><br>Ashwagandha is also used in training supplements for increased muscle growth.<br><br><strong>Cultivation:</strong><br><br>Ashwagandha can be grown in a bright window or under artificial light.<br><br>This is a plant that thrives in dry climates and therefore has no trouble living as a houseplant in Sweden. However, the plant can advantageously be placed outside in summer to receive extra sunlight. <br><br>As the plant grows larger, it is beneficial to provide ample space for the roots, as root growth is primarily what is sought when cultivating Ashwagandha.<br><br>Once the plant has grown, it is good to let the soil dry out between waterings as this prevents oxygen deficiency in the roots and further promotes increased root growth. Ashwagandha is very drought-resistant once established.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><strong>Sowing:</strong></p> <a> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Sow and let grow in well-drained soil. Cover the seeds with a 1 cm layer of soil or perlite. Keep the soil moist during the seedling stage.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><strong>Characteristics:</strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Lifespan: Perennial<br data-mce-fragment="1">Light: sun/partial shade<br data-mce-fragment="1">Height: 75 cm<br data-mce-fragment="1">Germination time: 1-3 weeks<br></p> </a>

<p><strong>Indian Ginseng / Ashwagandha: current height 20–40 cm</strong><br><br><strong>Common name:</strong> Indian Ginseng, Ashwagandha<br><strong>Scientific name:</strong> <em>Withania somnifera</em><br><strong>Family:</strong> Nightshade family</p> <h4>Plant history & use</h4> <p>Ashwagandha has been used for over 3,000 years in the Indian healing tradition and is sometimes called <em>Indian Ginseng</em> due to its strengthening and calming properties. The roots are the most valued part and are traditionally used as powder or decoction to support recovery, strengthen the nervous system, and balance energy. The young leaves are also edible and can be used in tea or mild herbal brews.</p> <h4>Cultivation</h4> <p>Thrives in sunny and warm locations with well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Preferably plant in a pot or raised bed to avoid winter dampness. Ashwagandha is a perennial herb but in Sweden needs to be brought indoors and overwintered frost-free – the plant only tolerates short periods of light frost (down to about –5 °C) and is safest to overwinter in a cool and bright indoor place. Harvest roots in autumn when the plant has withered down.</p> <h4>Properties</h4> <p><strong>Perennial:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Growing site:</strong> Sun<br><strong>Height:</strong> 40–70 cm<br><strong>Hardiness zone:</strong> Overwinter frost-free<br><strong>Use:</strong> Roots and leaves for tea, decoction, drying, and traditional herbal medicine</p>

<p>Practical tool or accessory that simplifies your cultivation and garden care.</p>

<p><strong>Japanese Maple in Various Sizes</strong></p> <p><strong>Height:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>80-100 cm</strong></li> <li><strong>100–120 cm [<meta charset="utf-8">PICKUP ONLY IN STORE]</strong></li> </ul> <p><strong>Common name:</strong> Japanese Maple<br><strong>Scientific name:</strong> <em>Acer palmatum</em><br><strong>Family:</strong> Sapindaceae</p> <h4>Plant History & Use</h4> <p>Japanese maple is a deciduous tree native to Japan, Korea, and China and has been cultivated for centuries for its graceful growth habit and vivid autumn colors. It is used both as an ornamental tree, in bonsai form, and in natural gardens where one wants to add structure, shade, and color.</p> <p>Young leaves are edible in small amounts and can be used as garnish. In Japan, the leaves are sometimes fried as a seasonal dish. The tree can also be tapped for sap early in spring—especially in colder climates. The sap’s sugar content is low but can be drunk as is or boiled down to a thin syrup, similar to maple syrup. The best sap flow occurs on warm sunny days after a night of frost.</p> <p>The leaves have also been used practically to help preserve root vegetables and apples—they have been placed as protective layers around the harvest to keep it fresh longer. In folk medicine, the leaves have been used in cooling compresses.</p> <p>However, the plant’s main function is aesthetic—as a shaper in garden spaces, where its silhouette and leaf color play the leading role.</p> <h4>Cultivation</h4> <p>Thrives in partial shade to sun, preferably in a sheltered spot. Well-drained, moisture-retentive soil with slight acidity is ideal. Japanese maple can be grown in pots, especially smaller varieties, but also thrives in the ground in a protected location. Protect from strong spring sun and wind to avoid leaf damage. Does not tolerate drying out—consistent watering is important.</p> <h4>Characteristics</h4> <p><strong>Perennial:</strong> Perennial<br><strong>Light conditions:</strong> Partial shade to sun<br><strong>Height:</strong> 2–4 meters<br><strong>Hardiness zone:</strong> 1–3 (4-5 in sheltered, well-drained locations)<br></p>

<p data-mce-fragment="1"> SEEDS (20pcs/bag)</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <strong data-mce-fragment="1">Common names:</strong> Japanese Raisin Tree, Oriental Raisin Tree, Raisin Tree, Chi-Chao Li <strong data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1">Scientific name:</strong> <em data-mce-fragment="1">Hovenia dulcis</em><em data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1"></em> <strong data-mce-fragment="1">Family:</strong> Rhamnaceae</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <strong><span>Plant history &amp; use:</span></strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">The Japanese Raisin Tree is a hardy tree found in Asia, from eastern China and Korea to the Himalayas where it grows at altitudes up to 2,000 m above sea level.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">The fleshy, sweet and fragrant fruits are eaten raw or cooked. When dried, they take on a taste and appearance reminiscent of raisins.</span> <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;"></span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">An extract made from seeds, branches and young leaves can be eaten like honey and is also used to make wine and candy (Facciola, S.).</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">The seeds contain about 15% protein and 7.8% fat (Duke. JA &amp; Ayensu. ES).</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">The raisin tree has long been used in traditional Chinese, Korean and Japanese medicines to treat a variety of ailments, including hangovers (Hyun TK et al.). The fruits of the raisin tree are already mentioned in <em>materia medica</em> from the Tang Dynasty in the 7th century.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">Modern research confirms that the flavanonol ampelopsin/dihydromyricetin (DHM), found in plants in the genera <em>Ampelopsis</em> and <em>Cercidiphyllum</em> , can reduce symptoms of alcohol intoxication and withdrawal (Reich L.).</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">Extracts of <em>Hovenia dulcis</em> are commercially available and marketed as a remedy for the after-effects of excessive alcohol consumption.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">The tree is traditionally known for its health benefits when consumed in tea form.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;"><span>The wood from the Raisin Tree is hard and well suited for making furniture.</span></span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <strong data-mce-fragment="1">Culture:</strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> Thrives well in well-drained, sandy clay soils in a sunny and warm location. It is best protected from frost in the first few years, after which the tree can withstand temperatures down to -15°C. However, if the tree is allowed to harden off slowly to the cold, the tissue can be allowed to mature (harden) and then the tree can be hardy down to -25°C (Huxley. A.).</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> Avoid compact and wet soils.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The tree is considered fast-growing and usually does not grow more than 5-6 meters tall in our climate. In other parts of the world it reaches heights of up to 30 meters.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> Can be topped to keep as a bush or allowed to grow to become more naturally tree-shaped.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">The raisin tree is drought tolerant, but the quality of the fruit can be significantly affected if the water supply is not good. Watering 2-3 times a week is recommended during spring and summer.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The fruits usually ripen late in the season, around October. The fruits are harvested when they have dried on the tree, so there is no need for manual drying of the fruits.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> The raisin tree is self-fertile and produces abundant fruit at maturity.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <strong data-mce-fragment="1">Sowing:</strong></p> <p> NOTE: These seeds have been stratified (cold period) and can therefore be sown immediately after receipt.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> Sow the seeds in moist soil. Cover with a thin layer (about 1 cm) of soil. Keep the seeds moist.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> For some seeds, germination can occur as late as a year later, i.e. another cold period later.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> <strong data-mce-fragment="1">Features:</strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"> Year: Perennial<br data-mce-fragment="1"> Growing position: sun / light shade<br data-mce-fragment="1"> Height: 4-30 m<br data-mce-fragment="1"> Germination time: 1-12 months<br data-mce-fragment="1"> Growing zone: 1-4<br></p>

<p>Japanese Raisin Tree - current height: 100-130 cm</p> <p>[Bild på träd kommer snart]</p> <p><strong>Common names:</strong> Japanese Raisin Tree, Oriental Raisin Tree, Raisin Tree, Chi-Chao Li<strong><br>Scientific name:</strong><em> Hovenia dulcis</em><em><br></em><strong>Family:</strong> Rhamnaceae</p> <h4><strong><span>Plant history &amp; usage:</span></strong></h4> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">The Japanese Raisin tree is a hardy tree found in Asia, from eastern China and Korea to the Himalayas where it grows at altitudes up to 2,000 m above sea level.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">The fleshy, sweet, and fragrant fruits are eaten raw or cooked. When the fruits are dried, they acquire both a taste and appearance reminiscent of raisins.  </span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">An extract made from seeds, branches, and young leaves can be eaten like honey and is also used to make wine and candy (Facciola, S.).</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">The seeds contain about 15% protein and 7.8% fat (Duke. J. A. &amp; Ayensu. E. S.).</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">The Raisin tree has long been used in traditional Chinese, Korean, and Japanese medicines to treat a variety of ailments, including hangover (Hyun TK et al.). The fruits of the Raisin tree are already mentioned in <em>materia medica</em> from the Tang dynasty in the 7th century.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">Modern research confirms that the flavanonol ampelopsin / dihydromyricetin (DHM), found in plants of the genera <em>Ampelopsis</em> and <em>Cercidiphyllum</em>, can reduce symptoms of alcohol poisoning and withdrawal (Reich L.). </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">Extracts of <em>Hovenia dulcis</em> are commercially available and marketed as a remedy for the aftereffects of excessive alcohol consumption.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;">The tree is traditionally known for its health benefits when consumed as tea.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;"><span>The wood from the Raisin tree is hard and well suited for furniture making.</span></span></p> <h4><strong>Cultivation:</strong></h4> <p>Thrives well in well-drained, sandy loam soils in sunny and warm locations. Preferably protected from frost during the first years, thereafter the tree tolerates down to -15°C. However, if the tree is slowly hardened against the cold, the tissue can mature (harden) and then the tree can be hardy down to -25°C (Huxley. A.).</p> <p>Avoid compact and wet soils.</p> <p>The tree is considered fast-growing and usually does not exceed 5-6 meters in height in our climate. In other parts of the world, it can reach heights up to 30 meters.</p> <p>Can be topped to be kept as a shrub or allowed to grow to become more naturally tree-shaped. </p> <p>The Raisin tree is drought-tolerant, but the quality of the fruit can be noticeably affected if water supply is insufficient. Watering 2-3 times a week is recommended during spring and summer. </p> <p>The fruits usually ripen late in the season, around October. The fruits are harvested when dried on the tree, so no need for manual drying of the fruits.</p> <p>The Raisin tree is self-fertile and produces abundant fruit when mature.</p> <h4><strong>Features:</strong></h4> <p>Perennial: Perennial<br>Growing position: sun / light shade<br>Height: 4-30 m<br>Germination time: 1-12 month(s)<br>Hardiness zone: 1-4<br></p>

<p data-mce-fragment="1">Jiaogulan: current height 20-40 cm<br></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><strong>Common names:</strong><span> Jiaogulan, Gynnostemma, <meta charset="utf-8">Sweet Tea Vine, Southern Ginseng, Miracle Plant, Amachazuru</span><br><strong>Scientific name:</strong><em><span> Gynostemma pentaphyllum</span><br></em><strong>Family:</strong> Cucurbitaceae</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><strong><span data-mce-fragment="1">Plant history &amp; use:</span></strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Jiaogulan, also called "the herb of immortality," is one of the lesser-known traditional Chinese herbs. For centuries it was used almost exclusively by the people in a mountainous region in southern China where the herb grows wild. </p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1"><meta charset="utf-8">Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as we know it today originated in the central part of the country, <meta charset="utf-8">far from this region. For this reason, Jiaogulan is not included in the standardized listings of medicines in TCM and is therefore not used as widely as other Chinese medicinal herbs. </span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><meta charset="utf-8">In the 1970s, China conducted a thorough census. It was then discovered that the inhabitants of certain regions, mainly Guizhou province, lived longer than average—often more than 100 years. It turned out that the oldest residents had regularly drunk Jiaogulan tea throughout their lives. Partly from this event comes the nickname "the herb of immortality," but also from numerous scientific studies conducted on the mysterious herb.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Modern recognition of Jiaogulan outside China stems from research into sugar substitutes. When examining the sweetening substance in Jiaogulan, saponins were found that are identical to the saponins found in <span style="color: #4e991d;"><a href="https://tradgardsdags.nu/products/koreansk-ginseng-panax-ginseng" title="Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng)" style="color: #4e991d;" target="_blank"><strong>Korean Ginseng (<em>Panax ginseng</em>)</strong></a></span>. Further research discovered several additional saponins which were comparable or identical to those found in P. ginseng. The saponins in P. ginseng are called ginsenosides while those found in Jiaogulan are called gypenosides. Compared to Korean Ginseng, Jiaogulan has the advantage of being much easier to cultivate and is ready for harvest much earlier.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><meta charset="utf-8">Today Jiaogulan is well used in China and is widely consumed by those interested in its reputed rejuvenating properties. </p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">The leaves taste sweet and are used to make tea. They can also be cooked—for example, in a wok.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">The herb is today used in the treatment of diabetes and a range of other ailments. There is much to read about this herb for the interested.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><strong>Cultivation:</strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Jiaogulan naturally has a widespread range: it stretches all the way from China to Korea and Japan, down to Southeast Asia and even to New Guinea. It is a plant that thrives in a variety of climates. It is a climbing plant that can reach up to 8 meters high. You can either grow it against something it can twine around, or let it creep along low-growing bushes on the ground.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Jiaogulan should be able to grow in most of Sweden’s zones 1-2, roughly tolerating temperatures down to -10°C. It prefers to grow in a humus-rich, well-drained but moisture-retaining soil (typical humus character)—potting soil works well. Place it in a sunny spot.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Plant in a pot and overwinter in a greenhouse the first year to give the plant somewhat milder conditions. You can also overwinter it in a storage room, cellar, etc., if there is enough light. If the plant survives the first year with protected overwintering, you can try planting it out in the ground the next spring to give it a chance to overwinter without protection the coming winter. You can always set up wind protection made of fleece and stakes around the plant and cover the base with straw to create milder conditions when growing directly outdoors.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Alternatively, move the plant indoors during winter and place it outside during the summer months. If your plant has grown well after the summer, prune and make tea from the leaves to adapt it to its new indoor growing space. With this method, it is possible to grow Jiaogulan throughout Sweden.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Suitable to grow as ground cover in favorable climates.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><strong>Characteristics:</strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1">Lifespan: Perennial<br data-mce-fragment="1">Growing position: sun<br data-mce-fragment="1">Height: up to 8 meters<br>Growing zone: 1-2</p>

<p>Soap plug that swells upon contact with water – perfect for seed sowing.</p>

<p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">SEEDS (15 pcs/bag)</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><strong>Common names:</strong> Carob, also called St. John's bread<br><strong>Scientific name:</strong><em> Ceratonia siliqua<br></em><strong>Family:</strong> Fabaceae</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1"><strong><span>Growth history &amp; uses:</span></strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">Carob is an evergreen cultivated plant with a long history of various uses. Thousands of years ago, Carob – as the dried bean pods are called – was used as a counterweight when weighing gold and gemstones. The seeds inside the pod always weighed 0.2 grams, and this is where the measure <i data-mce-fragment="1">carat</i> comes from.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">Carob has also been used as a medicine for coughs and was sold as candy in pharmacies in the past. The pods have a natural sugar content of 30-50%, which is believed to be one of the reasons they were eaten as snacks in the Roman Empire. </span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">A well-known use today is as a substitute for cocoa, in roasted and ground form. Unlike cocoa, carob is free from caffeine and theobromine, among other things.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">Another common use today is the so-called <em>locust bean gum</em> extracted from the seeds. <meta charset="utf-8"> <span data-mce-fragment="1">Locust bean gum</span> is a thickening agent used in various foods, including ice cream and crème fraîche.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">Carob contains many different vitamins, e.g. vitamin A and B2, and has a flavor reminiscent of caramel.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">The Carob tree fixes nitrogen absorbed from air pores in the soil via nodules on the roots. This nitrogen is used for the tree's own growth and consequently enriches the rest of the growing site. </span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><strong data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">Cultivation:</span></strong><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;"></span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; word-spacing: 0px; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">In its natural environment around the Mediterranean, the tree grows 10–15 meters tall and produces pods up to 25 cm long. In Sweden, it is best grown in a pot that is moved outdoors during the summer and overwintered in a cool place. Since the tree can tolerate temperatures down to about -8 ºC</span> before it is damaged, it is theoretically possible to keep it as an outdoor tree in favorable locations in Sweden. But this is an experiment in itself and is recommended to be tested once the tree has grown somewhat.</p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">Otherwise, Carob is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained/rocky soil in sunny locations. Avoid moist environments and heavy clay soils. Water when the soil has dried out and add nutrients during the summer months if desired.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">Repotting into a larger pot is preferably done before the taproot (the thickest main root) has grown down to the bottom. As with all plants, limited space for taproot growth equals a significant decrease in the growth of the entire plant.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">Carob trees growing in their natural environment around the Mediterranean are high-yielding trees that can produce up to 400 kg of bean pods each year.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><b data-mce-fragment="1"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">Sowing:</span></b></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><span data-mce-fragment="1" style="color: #3e3e3e;">Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 3 days before sowing. Sow in seed soil. Cover with 2 cm of soil. Keep the sowing moist. Germination time is about 2-5 weeks and the optimal germination temperature is 22-26 ºC.</span></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 15.0pt 0cm;"><strong data-mce-fragment="1">Features:</strong></p> <p data-mce-fragment="1" style="margin: 0cm; box-sizing: border-box;">Perennial: Perennial<br data-mce-fragment="1" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Growing conditions: sun <br data-mce-fragment="1">Height: up to 15 m<br data-mce-fragment="1">Germination time: 2-5 weeks<br></p>