Can You Plant Apple Seeds and Get a Tree?

Many of us enjoy eating apples, but have you ever wondered what it takes to grow an apple tree? Is it as simple as planting an apple seed and waiting for it to grow into a tree with juicy apples dangling from its branches? In this article, we will explore the answer to the question of whether you can plant apple seeds and get a tree.

The Short Answer

The short answer is yes, you can plant apple seeds and get a tree. However, the likelihood that the apple tree will produce edible apples that are true to the parent tree is slim to none.

Why Is That?

Unlike many other fruit trees, apple trees don't grow true to their parent plant. What this means is that the seeds from a Granny Smith apple may not produce an apple tree that produces Granny Smiths. Instead, the tree that grows from the seed will produce a different type of apple altogether.

There are two reasons for this. First, apple trees are heterozygous, which means that they contain two different sets of genetic information. This genetic diversity, called genetic variability, makes it difficult for apple trees to produce apples that are genetically identical to the parent apple. The second reason is that apple trees are often grafted, which means that growers take a branch or bud from an existing tree and connect it to the rootstock of a young tree. This process is done to ensure that a tree produces the same type of apple, which is not possible through planting an apple seed.

So, What Happens When You Plant An Apple Seed?

If you plant an apple seed, it will eventually grow into a tree, but the resulting tree may not produce apples that are edible or desirable. The apple tree that grows from the seed will be a hybrid of its two parent plants, containing a mixture of genetic information. This means that the tree may produce apples that are small or bitter or that spoil easily.

However, planting apple seeds can be a fun and educational experiment for children and adults alike. It's a great way to learn about the life cycle of plants and explore the concept of genetics. Plus, who knows, you may end up with a really tasty and unique apple variety!

The Bottom Line

While planting an apple seed can result in a tree, it's important to understand that the tree may not produce edible apples that are true to the parent plant. If you're interested in growing apple trees, it's best to start with a grafted tree from a reputable nursery.

However, if you are up for an experiment, planting apple seeds can be a fun and rewarding experience that teaches you about the fascinating world of plants and genetics. Who knows, you may even grow a new and exciting variety of apple that becomes the talk of the town!