How to Plant a Black Walnut Tree from a Seed

Black walnut trees are valuable additions to any landscape. These trees produce high-quality lumber and nuts, making them an attractive option for many gardeners. Planting a black walnut tree from a seed is relatively easy, but it does require some patience and know-how. Here's what you need to do.

Step One: Collect and Prepare the Seeds

The first step in planting a black walnut tree from a seed is to collect the seeds. You can collect black walnut seeds in the fall after the nuts have fallen from the trees. Choose nuts that are firm and have intact husks. Remove any nuts that are cracked or appear to be damaged. Once you have collected your nuts, remove the husks and rinse them in water. Then, allow them to dry for several weeks before planting.

Step Two: Prepare the Soil

Black walnut trees prefer fertile, well-drained soil. Before planting your seeds, make sure the soil is loose and free of weeds. You can amend the soil with compost or aged manure to improve its fertility. Black walnut trees also prefer slightly acidic soil, so you may need to add sulfur or another acidifying agent to lower the pH if necessary.

Step Three: Plant the Seeds

Once your seeds have dried for several weeks, it's time to plant them. Choose a spot in your landscape that receives full sun and has enough room for a mature black walnut tree. Dig a hole that is about two inches deep, and then place the seed in the hole with the pointed end facing down. Cover the seed with soil, and then water the area thoroughly to help the soil settle around the seed.

Step Four: Care for Your New Tree

Black walnut trees require regular irrigation, especially during their first year of growth. Water your new tree deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather. It's important to keep mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and prevent weeds. You may also want to provide some protection for your tree from deer and other wildlife that may be attracted to the nuts.

Black walnut trees can take several years to start producing nuts, but they are well worth the wait. With a little patience and care, you can grow a beautiful, valuable black walnut tree right in your own backyard.