How to grow trees from seed
We show you how to grow your own trees from seed.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sow | yes | yes |
Trees are the perfect plant, providing a focal point in the garden while absorbing and storing carbon, as well as providing food and homes for wildlife. A well-placed tree will provide shade in summer while letting light filter through to flowering bulbs in spring. Planting a tree in your garden will provide a fantastic focal point, autumn colour and even winter interest, while contributing to the 'forest' of garden trees across the country.
Growing trees from seed is an easy and rewarding job. The perfect activity for children, you can sow a variety of different types of tree for planting out in a few years time, helping to teach kids how to identify tree seeds and how trees grow.
Sowing one or two tree seeds is perfect for a small project, while lots of seed can be sown for hedging or, if you have space, your own copse. Given a winter cold period, tree seeds germinate when the days get longer in the spring.
You Will Need
- 1:1 mix of peat-free, multi- purpose compost and loam-based compost
- Tree seeds
- Horticultural grit
- Sharp sand
Step 1
Mix loam-based seed compost with a small amount of peat-free multi-purpose compost and coarse grit. Soak the compost, then sow your tree seeds sparingly on the surface.
Step 2
Spread a layer of sharp sand over the seed, working fast as the pre-soaked compost soon wets the sand and makes it difficult to get it even.
Step 3
Write a label with the date, seed source and name of the seed, then press it down into the side of the pot.
Step 4
Put the pot into a cold frame, where it will get the winter chill it needs to break dormancy before germinating. If your garden is sheltered, put the covered pot in the fridge for a few weeks before placing it outside.
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