You can also collect redbud seed pods in the winter, but it’s generally best to collect them earlier to avoid insect damage. [2] X Research source Collecting seeds locally ensures that you’ll get a strain that’s hardy in your climate zone. The eastern redbud is hardy in zones 4 to 9, but there are a few related redbud varieties that will only grow in warmer climates. [3] X Research source Alternatively, purchase redbud seeds online or from a garden center. Do a search using terms like “buy eastern redbud seeds. ”
Air-drying the pods first can make it easier to break them open so you can collect the seeds. If you choose to do this, spread the pods evenly on a screen and leave them in a dry place for a few days, until they feel hard and dry. [6] X Research source
For the best chance of success, collect several seeds instead of just 1 or 2. You’ll be more likely to get some viable seedlings that way. You can also check whether the seeds are viable by tossing them into a container of water. Good seeds will sink, while bad ones will float. [8] X Research source
Nicking or scoring the outside of the seed with a sharp knife. [11] X Research source Rubbing the outside of the seed with sandpaper. [12] X Research source Rub the seed for about 30 seconds to 1 minute to ensure that you wear through the outer coating. [13] X Trustworthy Source Missouri Botanical Garden Oldest botanical garden in the U. S. and center for botanical research and science education Go to source Soaking the seeds for about 30 minutes in concentrated sulfuric acid. [14] X Research source However, only use this method if you have access to proper safety equipment, such as a fume hood. [15] X Research source
Some gardeners recommend poking 1 or 2 holes in the lid of the container to provide ventilation. [17] X Research source If you don’t have a plastic tub, simply toss the seeds into a zipper-top bag with some moist, soil-free growing medium, such as vermiculite or pearlite. [18] X Research source The sand and peat moss mixture will help keep the seeds moist without making them soggy. Placing the seeds in a cool, moist medium will also simulate the natural conditions of an outdoor winter, which is an important part of their life cycle.
Make sure your fridge is set between 35 and 41 °F (2 and 5 °C), which is the optimal temperature range for redbud stratification.
You can also sow the seeds directly in the ground in fall or spring. [21] X Research source However, your seedlings are more likely to survive if you start them indoors. If you started your seeds in a seedling tray, move them to individual pots after they have a few true leaves.
If there’s a danger of frost, keep the seedlings indoors so their roots don’t freeze.
Water the tree thoroughly and lay down 2–4 inches (5. 1–10. 2 cm) of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and keep the roots warm. It may take up to 1-2 years for the tree to get large enough to plant outdoors. [25] X Research source
Avoid planting your redbud in the summer, since hot and dry conditions can be stressful for a young tree.
To check your soil drainage, dig a hole that’s about 12 inches (30 cm) wide and 12 inches (30 cm) deep. Fill it with water and see how fast it drains. The water level should go down by about 1 inch (2. 5 cm) per hour. [28] X Research source
Your baby redbud will need even more water for the first few weeks after you plant it. Water it daily for the first 1-2 weeks, then every 2-3 days for the next 10 weeks. After 12 weeks, you can switch to watering once a week. [30] X Research source
Redbuds grow at a medium rate of about 13–24 inches (33–61 cm) per year. It may take around 5 years for your tree to get tall enough so that it no longer needs protection. [32] X Research source A mature redbud can grow to about 20–30 feet (6. 1–9. 1 m) high. Unfortunately, these trees have fairly short lifespans, and typically begin to die after about 20 years. [33] X Research source
