Growing your own conifers from seed

It can take patience and care, but conifers can be fun to grow.

Seeds and cone of Austrian black pine (Pinus nigra).

Germinating seeds of pines, spruces and other conifers generally requires a period of cold called stratification. Usually a period of 30 - 60 days at 4 degrees C is required for best germination results. Some seeds will germinate regardless, though. First, collect enough conifer cones to dry out and extract the seeds from. If the cone scales are closed, that means that seeds are likely contained within. When the moisture content drops, the scales open up to release the winged seeds. This process can be accelerated by leaving the cones in a warm, dry location with good airflow.

Seeds from multiple cones of Austrian black pine, extracted into a pile.

One or two fully filled-out seed cones will be more than enough for germination purposes. Put the seeds into a plastic bag in peat moss or perlite and let it chill for several weeks. Transplant the seeds to a potting medium and add water to allow them to germinate. Wait patiently and soon you'll be looking at a seedling with several embryonic leaves.

Success! The pine seedling has finally sprouted.

With care and a bit of luck, you'll be able to grow your own pine and spruce seedlings in short order. Some conifers like Douglas-fir require less stratification and germinate more readily. Try it yourself and experiment with different kinds of seeds, the seedlings can be raised under a lamp indoors or grown in the windowsill.

Happy growing!

All images are original and taken during the seed harvesting process.