Grow your own Sequoia from seed

We germinate from seed, plant, and look after Giant Sequoia trees so that if you wish we manage everything….

But for those wishing to be a little more hands on and wanting to nuture their Redwood tree from its first sprouting moments here are some tips to help you on your way…

Giant Sequoia seeds are notoriously hard to germinate and manage. A single cone can hold as many as 200 seeds. If you have bought from a seed supplier, from a pack of 10 seeds you may get anything between 1-5 sprouts coming up.

Prior to starting the seeds need cold stratification. Keep the seeds moist and store for no less than 1 month in the fridge. 

STEP 1

Using clean potting soil and an appropriately sized pot. Water the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes, sprinkle the seeds over the soil and cover with a shallow dusting of soil, water again lightly.

STEP 2

Place your pot into plastic bag and store in a warm area away from direct sunlight, keep soil moist but not wet/soggy.

Check on the tray every couple days watching for little green sprouts. 

STEP 3

Once you see the first sprouts remove the pot from the bag and place on a window sill (or equivalent), but away from strong south facing sun. Maintian the soil as moist but not wet.

STEP 5

Once your tree has grown to over 20cm in height you can plant it the soil, but make sure you protect it from weeds and browsing rabbits and deer.

NOTE: The No.1 thing that kills the seedlings is overwatering!

Thanks to James Hartley of Yorkshire Redwoods for sharing the above steps that he uses to propogate Giant Sequoias from seed.