How to Grow a Tree from Seed

Some gardeners and landscapers are ambitious; they want to try growing a tree from seed to full maturity. Growing a tree from seed might not seem to be a tricky process, but it is a commitment. The easier thing to do is to hire a reliable tree service who can properly plant a young sapling and teach you how to help it grow. But, if you are the adventurous/experimental sort, here are some tips for planting tree seeds:

Round Up Your Materials

How to Grow a Tree from Seed

  • Choose your seed. Beachmast, acorn, sweet chestnuts, and hazelnuts are relatively easy to find in nurseries or online and are good choices for first-time tree planters.
  • A plant pot with holes in the base
  • Small stones
  • Compost
  • Wire mesh
  • Sticks (optional)
  • Plastic bottles (optional)

Next Steps

How to Grow a Tree from Seed

  • Place the small stones at the bottom of the pot. Fill it with compost almost to the top.
  • Plant your tree seed about two (2) centimetres deep. Press down, compressing the compost, and water the entire pot thoroughly. Use only one type of seed per pot, to prevent competing growth.
  • Place the pot outdoors in an area of indirect sunlight. Cover the top of the pot with wire mesh to prevent birds or squirrels from digging up the seeds.
  • Check weekly to prevent the compost from drying out. Watering it every day is unnecessary; be careful not to over-water.
  • When you see sprouts starting to appear, keep an eye on the growth. As it gets bigger, transfer the sapling into a larger pot. Once it reaches 40 centimetres, transfer it to the ground.
  • To prevent the risk of your tiny tree being destroyed by rabbits or mice, add an extra layer of protection by pushing several sticks into the ground directly next to the new sapling. You can also create a DIY plastic plant protector by cutting the neck and base of a large soft drink bottle. Place it (larger side down) over the stick barricade around the sapling and push the bottle into the compost.

Protect your small tree from extreme winter temperatures; consult tree experts to help you frost-proof your young tree(s) and keep them healthy well into adulthood.

Determining If A Favourite Old Tree Should Be Removed

For professional forestry and tree services, please call Dave Lund Tree Service and Co. Ltd. at (905) 884-0511. We’re happy to assist with growing your small seed into a mature, beautiful tree.