How to Grow a Boswellia Tree

Select an appropriate place to plant your boswellia sapling. The tree will need access to full sunlight in order to reach its potential. Some boswellia trees can reach the height of 25 feet. For best results, plant the sapling in dry, sandy soil. Leave 15 feet of open space around the tree, because boswellia trees grow branches from the base of the tree, like a shrub.

Break up the ground in the selected spot. Take out large rocks and remove debris from the hole. Boswellia are native to rocky soils, but large objects could still hinder growth of the tree.

Purchase tree starter fertilizer and mix it into the ground, following the instructions on the bag. This initial application of fertilizer will help the young sapling grow into a strong adult tree.

Clear a hole in the fertilized dirt the size of the boswellia sapling's root. Measure the correct depth of the hole by placing the sapling in it. The top of the tree's root ball should be at the same level as the sides of the hole. When the correct depth has been reached, set the sapling in the hole and fill around the root ball with soil. Plant a tree stake nearby and attach the sapling to it with a piece of rope for support. When the boswellia is strong enough to support itself, the stake can be removed.

Water the boswellia sapling two times a day, watching for new growth. When new growth appears, this means that the tree has taken root. With the new growth you can reduce the amount you give the tree to once every two or three days, as Boswellia trees like dry soil. Keep a close eye on the tree to determine the best watering intervals, since types of soil and climate can vary.

Prune the tree annually to keep it healthy. Apply pruning shears to the branches, cutting back one-third of the oldest branches in the spring.