How to Grow Pine Trees From Pine Cones
In order to grow a pine tree from a pine cone, you must be patient and dedicated; germination of pine seeds takes up to four months and sometimes, despite your best efforts, it just doesn't work. The most important aspect of growing a pine from seed is to collect good quality seeds during the autumn months from the female pine cones, which are distinguished from their male counterparts by their noticeably larger size. The more seeds you plant, the more likely you will have a successful seedling ready for planting outdoors the following spring. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Female pine cones
- Pine seeds
- Small bucket or bowl
- Water
- Cookie sheet
- Airtight storage container
- Potting soil
- Pots
Instructions
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1
Gather female pine cones during September, October or November. Each scale typically hides two seeds that are distinguished by a tiny wing-like structure that is attached to it. This wing allows for the seed to disperse over great distances.
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2
Shake the pine cones upside down vigorously to remove the seeds.
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3
Place the seeds into your bucket or bowl filled with water. The seeds that have a higher chance of successful germination are the seeds that float. Collect these seeds and spread them out to dry on a cookie sheet.
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4
Store dried seeds in an airtight storage container until January.
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5
Fill each pot with potting soil. You will only be planting one seed per pot. Poke your pinky finger into the center of the soil and place the seed in, pointed side facing down. Cover loosely with soil.
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6
Water the seeds as often as necessary to keep the soil moist, but not saturated. The pots should be placed in full sunlight. It may take until April before you see signs of germination. If there is nothing in your pot by May, the seed has most likely failed.
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7
Allow successful seedlings to grow at least one foot before transplanting outdoors.
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Tips & Warnings
Seeds should only be harvested from mature pine cones that have fallen to the ground, are brown in color and have open or protruding scales. Do not harvest seeds from closed or green pine cones.
Never harvest pine cones that have been touched by animals because there is a risk of disease and the seeds are not likely to germinate due to their likely mangled condition.
Do not over-water your pine seeds. The conditions must remain moist, but too much water results in the growth of mildew or fungus that will destroy the seeds.
