Growing trees from seed

Growing a tree from seed is a satisfying project, but it helps to know what that particular seed needs before you plant it. Some tree seeds germinate fairly readily. Others need a period of cold, moisture, or other preparation before they will sprout.

Start by identifying the tree the seed came from. Then look up the germination requirements for that species. Guessing at the treatment can leave you waiting for a seed that isn't ready to grow. The USDA Woody Plant Seed Manual includes information on collecting, storing, and germinating many kinds of tree seed.

The trees in the photo were grown from seed collected from a nearby boulevard tree. When this post was first written, they were about 15 years old and had grown larger and fuller than the parent tree. It was a good reminder that planting conditions matter as much as the seed you start with.

Give a young tree room for its roots and eventual crown, and keep an eye on soil moisture while it establishes. A seedling that looks small today may need a very different amount of space in a few years. Choosing its permanent spot carefully is part of the growing process.