How to Grow Nickerbean

Nickerbean is a vining shrub that occurs naturally in tropical locations across the world. It has glossy gray seeds, which are sometimes used to make jewelry. Its stems grow up to 20 feet long and are lined with bright green leaves and large thorns. The shrub produces sweetly scented yellow blooms at various times throughout the year. Nickerbean spreads prolifically through self-seeding, as well as by roots, and must be controlled by diligent removal of wayward plants. It thrives in a sandy, full-sun area and is ideal for beachfront locations.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Spade
• Pruning shears

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Gather nickerbean seeds when the pods feel completely dry to the touch.

   • 2

     Remove the desired number of seeds from the pods and make a small nick in the coating of each with a knife.

   • 3

     Plant the seeds at a depth equal to 1/2 their length. Water until the soil feels barely moist.

   • 4

     Provide supplemental water only when conditions become extremely dry.

   • 5

     Prune off unsightly portions of the nickerbean shrub's foliage to maintain an attractive appearance.

   • 6

     Pull up volunteer seedlings when you notice them. Dig up nickerbean suckers that develop around the parent shrub's base to keep growth under control.