How do I Grow Chestnut Trees From Seed?

Chestnut trees grow well from seeds planted directly in the ground.

Chestnut trees have been seriously affected by blight, spurring the creation of blight-resistant chestnut trees. These trees can be easily planted by seeds, some of which are sent out by the American Chestnut Cooperators' Foundation.

Location

Chestnut trees grow best from seed when planted in an area with morning sun instead of afternoon sun. Chestnut trees perform better at altitudes below 2500 feet, according to the American Chestnut Cooperators' Foundation. They also need somewhat an acidic, sandy loam soil in a well-drained location, preferably high on a slope to protect them from frost.

Preparation

Dig a hole the winter or spring before for fall planting. Dig a 2-feet deep hole and refill with a half-and-half mixture of peat moss and the soil from the hole. Place a stake in the center, put a 1/2-gallon milk jug 2 inches into the soil in the center of the hole and set up an 8-inch tree shelter over the area.

Seeding

You should plant a chestnut directly in the hole during October. Press the chestnut into the hole and cover it with 1 inch of peat moss. Replace the milk jug and cover with netting until May.

First Year

You should remove netting and cut a hole in the milk jug in May to allow the seedling to grow. Cut the jug away completely in August. You can place moth balls in the soil around the seedling and sprinkle chili powder in the tree cage to keep raccoons away, according to the American Chestnut Cooperators' Foundation.

References

• Virginia Tech: Growing American Chestnuts

Resources

• Purdue University: Chestnut Tree