Can You Plant Apple Trees from Seed?

Apple trees are a common sight in many gardens, providing not only beauty but also a source of fresh fruit. Many apple tree growers have wondered whether they can plant apple trees from seed, rather than purchasing saplings or grafting.

Planting Apple Trees from Seed: Is It Possible?

The short answer to this question is yes, it is possible to plant apple trees from seed. However, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind if you decide to go this route.

First, it is important to understand that planting apple trees from seed can be a bit of a gamble. While the seed will eventually grow into a tree, the fruit produced by that tree may not be the same as the parent tree. In fact, it is quite likely that the fruit will be different in both appearance and taste.

Additionally, apple trees that are grown from seed can take up to ten years or more to start producing fruit. This is significantly longer than the two to three years it typically takes for grafted apple trees to produce fruit.

The Advantages of Planting Apple Trees from Seed

Despite these drawbacks, there are some advantages to planting apple trees from seed. For one, it can be a more affordable way to start an orchard, as purchasing saplings or grafting can be quite expensive.

Additionally, planting apple trees from seed can be a rewarding and educational experience for those who want to learn more about the nuances of fruit tree cultivation.

How to Plant Apple Trees from Seed

If you decide to plant apple trees from seed, there are a few steps you will need to follow.

First, you will need to gather apple seeds. These can be collected from apples purchased at the grocery store or from a neighbor's apple tree.

Once you have collected your seeds, you will need to clean them by removing any remaining fruit or pulp. This can be done by soaking them in water for a few days, changing the water daily.

Next, you will need to stratify the seeds. This process involves exposing the seeds to cold temperatures for a period of time, in order to simulate the winter dormancy period that apple seeds experience in nature. This can be done by placing the seeds in a plastic bag with some damp peat moss or sand, and storing them in the refrigerator for approximately three months.

After the stratification period has ended, you can plant the seeds outdoors in the spring. You will need to select a sunny location with well-drained soil. Plant the seeds approximately one inch deep, and water thoroughly. You may want to place a wire mesh screen over the planting area to prevent animals from disturbing the seeds.

With patience and care, your apple trees will eventually grow into mature trees. While the fruit produced may not be the same as the parent tree, planting apple trees from seed can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to start an orchard of your own.