Introduction

Crabapple trees are beautiful ornamental trees that add color and charm to any landscape. Growing these trees from seeds is a fun and rewarding way to add them to your garden. In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to plant crabapple trees from seeds.

Step 1: Collecting Seeds

The first step is to collect crabapple seeds. You can either buy seed packets or collect them from existing trees. To collect seeds from existing trees, wait until the fruit has ripened and then pick them directly from the tree. Remove the flesh surrounding the seeds and let them dry for a few days.

Step 2: Preparing the Seeds

After drying for a few days, the seeds will be ready for planting. It's important to note that crabapple seeds are dormant and require cold stratification to break dormancy. To do this, place the seeds in a plastic bag with moist soil or sand and refrigerate for at least 90 days.

Step 3: Planting the Seeds

Once the seeds have undergone cold stratification, they are ready to be planted. Find a well-draining location with full sun to plant the seeds. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the seed and plant the seed about 1 inch deep in the soil. Cover the seed with soil and water the area well.

Step 4: Caring for the Seedlings

It will take anywhere from 2 to 5 weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings appear, make sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week or as needed during dry periods. Crabapple trees prefer slightly acidic soil, so check the soil pH and adjust it if necessary. Fertilize the seedlings once a year with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.

Step 5: Transplanting the Seedlings

When the seedlings are about 12 inches tall, they are ready to be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground. Choose a location with well-draining soil, full sun, and room for the tree to grow. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball and carefully remove the seedling from its current pot or location. Place the seedling in the hole and fill in with soil. Water the area well.

Step 6: Caring for the Trees

Once your crabapple trees are established, they require minimal care. Water the tree deeply once a week or as needed during dry periods. Fertilize the tree once a year with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Prune the tree in early spring to remove any dead or diseased branches, and to shape the tree as desired.

Conclusion

Growing crabapple trees from seeds is a fun and rewarding way to add these beautiful trees to your landscape. With a little bit of patience and care, you can enjoy the beauty of these trees for years to come.