How to Handle Cypress Tree Seeds

Many cypress trees thrive in swampy areas.

Cypress trees are tall evergreens that have life spans of more than 100 years in many locations. Various types of cypress exist naturally in swampy areas of the South, high Canadian altitudes and many places in between. Cypress trees grow from seeds that emerge on the branches encased in balls. Knowing how to handle these fragile cypress seeds is the first step in growing a healthy tree.

Things You'll Need

• Shallow pan
• Ethyl alcohol
• Peat moss
• Cheesecloth
• Plastic bag
• Soil

Instructions

1. Collect the seeds in the fall. Pluck the mature cypress fruit from the tree before it has a chance to dry out. Place the fruit aside to allow sufficient time for drying. Once the fruit is dry and slightly shriveled, gently break it apart to reveal the cypress seeds within. Remove the individual seeds from the dry fruit husk.

2. Treat your cypress seeds by placing them in a shallow pan and covering them with ethyl alcohol. Allow the seeds to remain in the alcohol for about five minutes. Thoroughly rinse the seeds to remove all traces of the alcohol and set them aside.

3. Stratify your cypress seeds before planting. Seed stratification requires cool temperatures to provide an opportunity for dormancy. Prepare for stratification by placing some peat moss in water until it's thoroughly moistened. Squeeze out excess water so your peat moss is just slightly damp to the touch.

4. Prepare a small container to hold your seeds during the stratification process. A fabric container, such as cheesecloth, works well to contain your cypress seeds during this stage. Layer your cypress seeds between the damp peat moss and loosely wrap the bundle with your cheesecloth. Place the little bundle in a plastic bag or container to hold in moisture. Place the seeds in a cool, dark location for at least 60 days to complete stratification.

5. Plant your stratified seeds into small peat pots for easy transplantation later on. Use soil removed from the same area you harvested the seeds for optimum success. Cypress trees grow naturally in soil containing satisfactory nutrient requirements. Provide adequate water and sunlight during seed sprouting.

References

• Bald Cypress
• Cypress Trees