How To Grow Apple Tree From Seeds At Home: A Simple Guide For Beginners

That crisp, sweet apple you picked up from the grocery store and enjoyed down to the core was amazing! Imagine stepping outside and picking a similar one straight from a tree in your garden. As you look at the small brown seeds in the apple core, you might wonder: Could I plant these and grow my own apple trees? The quick answer is: yes. Below, we provide a detailed guide on how to grow an apple tree from seeds.

Supplies Needed For Growing Apple Tree From Seeds At Home

Here are the supplies you'll need to grow an apple tree from seeds at home:

• Apple seeds (from a fresh apple)
• Paper towels
• Plastic bag or container (for stratification)
• Planting pots (with drainage holes)
• Potting soil
• Water spray bottle (for misting)
• Grow lights or a sunny window
• Labels or markers (optional, for keeping track of varieties)

These items will help you successfully start your apple tree from seeds at home.

How To Grow Apple Tree From Seeds At Home

We spoke with Swaminathan, a local gardener, who shared with us how you can grow an apple tree from seeds at home:

1. Gather and Clean the Seeds

• After eating an apple, save the seeds from the core.
• Rinse the seeds well with water to remove any remaining fruit pulp.

2. Cold Stratification

• Place the seeds on a damp paper towel.
• Fold the towel over the seeds and put it in a plastic bag or container.
• Store the bag in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks. This cold period simulates winter, which is necessary for the seeds to germinate.

3. Prepare Planting Containers

• Fill small pots with quality potting soil that drains well.
• Slightly moisten the soil so it's damp but not too wet.

4. Plant the Seeds

• After the stratification period, plant the seeds about 1/2 inch deep in the prepared pots.
• Lightly cover the seeds with soil and press down gently.

5. Provide Light and Water

• Place the pots in a sunny spot, like a windowsill, or under grow lights.
• Keep the soil consistently moist by watering regularly, but avoid overwatering.

6. Care for the Young Plants

• As the seeds sprout and grow, make sure they receive plenty of light.
• Continue to water regularly and protect the seedlings from extreme temperatures.

7. Transplant the Seedlings

• When the seedlings are a few inches tall and strong enough, transplant them into larger pots or directly into your garden if the conditions are suitable.
• Select a sunny spot with well-drained soil for outdoor planting.

8. Ongoing Care

• It will take several years for the apple tree to mature and produce fruit.
• Regularly water, fertilise, and prune the tree as it grows.
• Be patient, as it may take 6-10 years before the tree begins to bear fruit.

By following these instructions, you can successfully grow an apple tree from seeds at home and eventually enjoy fresh apples from your own garden.

Keep reading Herzindagi for more such stories.

Credits: Freepik