Posted by David Woehler on April 12, 2006

Q: howdoes one grow pinetrees from scratch? I have several cones I wish to plant. Do I break off the seeds? Or plant the whole cone? Do I need a male cone? ( I think so !) Thank you in advance...

State: Kentucky

Habitat: suburban/yard

A: You'll need pine seeds to grow a pine from scratch. The pine cones are merely holders that have seeds within. If you have some cones around, check them for seeds but if the scales on the cones have opened already, many if not most, of the seeds will already have fallen out. In the spring, pine trees produce separate reproductive structures that are male and female. Once the female structures are pollinated, these grow into pine cones with seeds inside.

Once you have some seeds that have spent a dormant period over the winter, these can be planted in moist, well-draining soil and allowed to germinate. Pines need lots of sun so be sure wherever you place them, they aren't shaded out by other plants. Best of luck.

John Wiessinger ( April 12, 2006)