Can You Take Seeds from Apple Trees and Plant Them?

Apple trees are a popular fruit tree in many backyards and orchards. Many people wonder if they can take seeds from these trees and grow new apple trees. The answer is yes, but it is important to understand the process and expectations when planting apple seeds.

The Process of Planting Apple Seeds

The first step in planting apple seeds is to collect the seeds from mature apples. These seeds can be dried out before they are stored for planting. Once the seeds are ready to be planted, they should be placed in a container with moist soil. This container should be kept in a cool place for a month to stratify the seeds. After the seeds have stratified, they should be moved to a warm spot to encourage germination. The seeds may take several weeks or even months to sprout.

Expectations for Growing Apple Trees from Seeds

Growing apple trees from seeds can be exciting, but it is important to understand that the resulting tree may not have the same qualities as the parent tree. This is because apple trees are often grafted, which means that a branch from one tree is attached to the rootstock of another tree. This allows growers to produce trees with desired qualities, such as disease-resistance and fruit flavor. When planted from seed, the resulting tree may not have these qualities or may be more susceptible to disease.

Additional Considerations for Growing Apple Trees from Seeds

In addition to understanding the process and expectations for growing apple trees from seeds, it is important to consider the climate and growing conditions in your area. Apple trees have specific temperature and fertilizer needs and may be more suited to certain regions. In addition, it may take several years for a seed-grown apple tree to produce fruit, making it a long-term investment for growers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it is possible to take seeds from apple trees and grow new trees, it is important to understand the process, expectations, and considerations before starting this process. While it may be exciting to grow apple trees from seeds, the resulting tree may not have the same qualities as the parent tree and may take years to produce fruit. It is essential to research the specific needs of apple trees and to consider the long-term investment of growing these trees from seed.