So you’re looking to grow your own kratom tree? You’ve come to the right place. Since gaining popularity, kratom enthusiasts have a true appreciation for the plant, and for great reason…it is known to literally help millions of people to live their best lives!
Those who choose to grow kratom trees aren’t exactly in it to have their own supply. It won’t likely give you much as far as supply goes, but is still super fun to do.
Here is a guide to help you to learn more about how to grow kratom:
Start with Seeds or Starter Plants
While kratom originally and continues to hail from Southeast Asia, it is definitely possible to begin growing kratom in the United States. But what should you start with; seeds or starter plants? It really depends on the energy and motivation you have to grow the herb.
The reason kratom thrives so well in Southeast Asia is due largely in part to the land’s soil. Its perfect conditions make for exceptional plants. While you may be able to mimic the soil to an extent in the States, it is impossible to replicate entirely due to our different climates.
If you’d like to start with seeds, be aware that they will need to be fresh, extremely fresh in fact. In order to go through the germination process successfully, you cannot have old or dried out seeds, which tends to be common when people attempt it outside of Southeast Asia.
If you’re one of the lucky ones who does indeed find a fresh abundance of seeds, you could be in luck. However, you’re going to need quite a few in order to get the desired results.
This brings us to our next point of why beginning the growing process with either early plant shoots or starters are going to likely be your best bet. Unlike fresh seeds, there are plenty of growers in the country who will be willing to sell you a starter plant.
Keep in mind when shopping that you’ll probably have the best luck with an already rooted plant. This is because if you simply purchase a cutting of a kratom plant, it will be more susceptible to such things as infections, or simply not taking on the right form needed to grow successfully.
To reiterate the above, as it can get pretty technical, you will truly have the best chances of growing a healthy kratom tree when you purchase an already rooted plant.
Soil is Everything!
The main reason, again, that kratom trees thrive so abundantly well in Southeast Asia is due to the natural flora of the soil conditions. Also noteworthy are the regions’ rainy seasons, which also helps them to prosper so well. While this can be somewhat difficult to mimic in America, it’s not impossible whatsoever, i.e. don’t be too intimidated to give it your best shot!
The key to achieving the best soil for your kratom tree is the moisture found in your soil. Fertile soil is integral to achieving your best results, with draining options that don’t exclusively allow for the water to only seep into the roots. If you’re beginning your journey with seeds, you’ll need to worry less about draining issues, and concentrate more on the plant’s water needs. Always make sure that the soil is exceptionally moist.
If you’re beginning with a starter tree, moisture levels will also be vital, as well as drainage. You will begin to get a feel for what is working as far as watering your kratom tree grows. If you find that the leaves are beginning to turn yellow, that is indicative of the plant getting too much water, just as if the leaves feel dry it’s indicative of needing more water. And we cannot emphasize sunlight enough…kratom trees love and prosper with plenty of rays!
Interestingly enough, farmers have found that a fan can be helpful in mimicking wind for your kratom tree, which has the potential to lead to stealthier leaves.
Lighting and Harvesting Kratom
When it comes to lighting, try to envision and recreate what a natural kratom tree needs in Southeast Asia, i.e. rainforest conditions. 
Many kratom tree growers swear by having light on their plants (can be a mix of sun and artificial light) for 12 hours a day, leaving 12 without light.
If you’re finding that the soil of your kratom plant isn’t getting quite enough moisture, try adding a humidifier to the mix. This will help to mimic the natural, flourishing conditions of the rainforests that they thrive so abundantly in.
When will harvest time begin for your kratom tree, if that’s your end goal (rather than having it as purely an beautifying accent)? As the old saying goes, patience is a virtue, and your plant is no exception to this rule. It’s important to harvest only mature leaves that have reached their full potential. This typically takes place after your plant is done flowering, which typically occurs in about a year’s time. If you notice that your leaves are beginning to fall, this is an excellent sign that your kratom tree is ready to harvest!
While kratom farmers in the tree’s native land like to chew the leaves, you can also dry them out in order to make tea. For more information read our comprehensive guide to making kratom tea.
Happy harvesting, and most of all we hope you enjoy your journey!
