How to Plant a Magnolia Tree Seed

Magnolias, native to both the eastern United States and southern Asia, are grown as ornamental trees that produce large showy blooms. They emit a sweet fragrance. With over 80 species, magnolia trees can be either deciduous (losing their leaves in the fall) or evergreen. The most popular species in the US is an evergreen magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) commonly referred to as southern magnolia. These trees can be started from seed in the fall and over-wintered inside for spring seedlings.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Magnolia seeds
• All-purpose potting soil
• Peat moss
• Sand
• Planting tray
• Plant pots

1. Gather seeds from magnolia pods just before the pods open. Seeds will be covered with a reddish orange coating. Soak in tepid water for 24 hours to remove the coating. Remove from water and squeeze the pulp in your hands to force the glossy black seeds out of the pulp. Wash in warm water to remove any flesh or residue from the coating.

2. Plant seeds to a depth of 1/2 inch in tray of potting mixture of two parts peat moss, one part all-purpose potting soil and one part sand. Water thoroughly and cover the container with plastic wrap to maintain moisture.

3. Set in a warm location to germinate. Monitor closely. Keeping the soil evenly moist, but avoiding soggy soil. Open the plastic daily to provide air circulation and to stabilize moisture. Seedlings emerge in 4 to 6 weeks.

4. Remove the plastic wrap and place seedlings in a sunny window. Plant in individual pots once seedlings have developed the second set of leaves.

5. Plant outside in the spring after all danger of frost has passed. Magnolias like full sun and well-drained soil. They need plenty of room to grow. Avoid planting close to buildings or foundations.