How to Grow Magnolia Trees from Seed

Magnolia trees produce seed cones in the fall, which litter yards and sidewalks. The gorgeous red seeds serve as a delicacy for squirrels and migrating birds, and they can also be collected to grow more magnolias!

As a lifelong gardener with years of experience growing magnolia trees, I can tell you growing them isn’t a simple process. To grow magnolia trees from seed, you’ll need to collect ripe seeds in the fall, prepare them through scarification and stratification, and then plant them in the spring.

Growing magnolias from seed is a practice of patience — not only will you need to wait a few months to see signs of sprouting, but the seedlings may take as long as 15 years to bloom! Nevertheless, if you’ve ever seen a Southern magnolia in full blossom, you know it’s worth the wait.

What Magnolia Species Should You Plant?

For best results, collect magnolia seed pods from standard species (like Southern magnolia) rather than hybrids or special cultivars. Hybrids are specially pollinated to mix two varieties together, and their seeds will likely revert back to one of the parent tree varieties rather than producing the same type of tree you admired.

How to Collect and Plant Magnolia Seeds

Follow these five simple steps to grow magnolia trees from seeds for your yard.

Step 1: Collect Magnolia Seeds

Look for magnolia cones that are already opening up and releasing the seeds. If you can’t find any, pick up fresh cones and set them aside for a few days until they dry and open. Gently shake the red magnolia seeds out of the cone.

Step 2: Scarify Magnolia Seeds

Scrub magnolia seeds with a paper towel to remove the red pulpy coating. If the seed coat doesn’t come off, try soaking the seeds in water overnight to soften them – throwing away any that float.

Once you’ve removed the seed coat, rough up the surface of the seed a little (called “scarifying”) by lightly scrubbing the seed with a piece of sandpaper, screen wire, or steel wool. This removes protective oils and makes it easier for the seed to break open and sprout.

Step 3: Stratify Magnolia Seeds

Allow the seeds to rest for 3-6 months at around 40° to 45°F without drying out. There are three ways to do this:

• Refrigerator: The easiest way is to mix the seeds with moist seed-starting mix or peat, place them in a plastic bag or container, and stick them in the fridge for the winter.
• Cold Frame: Alternately, you can plant the seeds about 1/2″ deep in a seed tray or small pot and put them in a cold frame. Be sure to keep the soil moist all winter and protect it from freezing temperatures.
• Outdoors: If you prefer nature’s approach, you can plant the seeds outdoors, about 1/2″ deep, with a layer of mulch to hold in moisture. If you plant them outdoors, keep in mind that they may not survive if they freeze or dry out, and they’ll be an easy snack for hungry squirrels!

Step 4: Plant Magnolia Seeds

When temperatures reach around 70° F in the spring, plant your magnolia seeds either in the ground or in pots about 1/2″ deep in a light planting medium. Keep evenly moist until the seeds germinate. Propagation usually takes a few weeks or longer.

Step 5: Grow Magnolia Trees

Transplant seedlings to their permanent homes or grow them in pots until they’re a little bigger. Keep the seedlings evenly moist and protected from direct sun for the first year.

Where to Get Magnolia Tree Seeds

The best source to get seeds is often mature magnolia trees in your area, as you can collect seeds directly from their cones in the fall. However, if you don’t have access to local trees, there are other options available.

Here are some places to find magnolia tree seeds:

• Local parks or botanical gardens (with permission)
• Neighbors or friends with mature magnolia trees
• Seed exchanges or gardening clubs
• Online seed retailers specializing in tree seeds
• Local nurseries or garden centers (some may offer seeds in addition to magnolia seedlings and saplings)

How Often You Should Water Magnolia Trees

After you transfer your magnolia sapling to the ground, proper watering is crucial for the health and growth of magnolia trees, especially during their early years. Young magnolia trees and seedlings require consistent moisture to establish strong root systems.

Water deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1–inch of water each time. As the tree matures, you can reduce watering frequency but ensure the soil remains evenly moist. During dry spells or in hot climates, increase watering as needed to prevent stress on your tree.

Do Magnolia Trees Live in All Climates?

While magnolia trees are adaptable, they don’t thrive in all climates. Most magnolia species prefer USDA hardiness zones 4-9, with some variations depending on the specific variety. They generally do best in areas with mild winters and warm summers with full sun exposure.

Magnolias struggle in extremely cold regions or in areas with prolonged freezing temperatures. They also prefer climates with moderate humidity and protection from strong winds. In hotter climates, some species may require partial shade to protect them from intense afternoon sun.

Final Thoughts

Growing magnolia trees from seed is a long but rewarding process that begins with collecting fresh seeds in the fall, preparing them through scarification and stratification, and planting them in the spring.

While it requires patience, the satisfaction of nurturing these magnificent trees from seed to maturity is unparalleled. The key to success is providing proper care, consistent watering, and choosing the right magnolia variety for your climate. With time and dedication, you’ll be rewarded with the breathtaking beauty of your own homegrown magnolia trees.

Further Information

• How to Grow Magnolias in Your Yard (article)