Planting Osage in western Kentucky

[osage outlaw]

The deer eat the entire fruit.  I haven't watched squirrels close enough to see what part they eating.  I'm guessing its the seeds.  They will carry the fruit onto a log or stump and shred it. 

[Morgan]

If took care of, how many years would it take for a seedling to reach 6-8” in diameter?

[Pat B]

My guess would be twenty years or more depending on the growing environment.

[wizardgoat]

I planted 3 osage trees when my son was born 2.5 years ago, they are around the same height.
Gun Doc sent few a few more hedge apples too. They should grow well here I’d think

[Hawkdancer]

Btw, what's Gun Doc up to?.  haven't see him post lately!  As far as I know, there isn't much Osage out here, and I don't know if there are enough years to grow some!  Generally too dry.
Hawkdancer

[HH~]

Jim

Make me a map where you plant all those Hedge Apples.

Shawn~

[Knoll]

Some fun/interesting reads outta this post.
Thanks fellas.

[Little John]

Any one should get them planted as soon as possible and start pruning and training. If any one could cultivate a few acres and train them to grow straight they might be a good retirement income, and the right thing to do. I wish I had of done it 20 years ago.

[osage outlaw]

They need a canopy to grow straight and tall.  In the open they grow into a shrubby mess of limbs.

[Eric Krewson]

I often wondered if they could be extensively trained and pruned when planted in the open. I don't think I have ever seen a straight on growing on a field edge or in the open

[Jim Davis]

Jim

Make me a map where you plant all those Hedge Apples.

Shawn~

I'll plan on it! Of course, I may forget by the time I get around to planting them...

[Jim Davis]

I've tended the sprouts where I cut trees a few years ago. They sure do want to branch and curve. I have several good billet lengths coming and one nice straight 6 foot section that is about 1-1/4" diameter.