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Home » Planting & Growing

Growing Apple Trees from Seeds

Published: Apr 14, 2023 · Updated: May 22, 2023 · This post may contain affiliate links. We earn commission from purchases made. ·

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a young apple tree with text overlay that reads how to grow apple trees from seeds
infographic showing how to care for young apple trees

Apples are such a delicious fruit, and always seem to be in my grocery cart at the store. One day, I used the seeds from one of those apples and decided to try my luck at growing an apple tree.

an apple tree sapling growing in a milk jug
Jump to:
  • How to plant an apple seed
  • How long does it take for an apple seed to sprout?
  • When should I plant it outside?
  • How to care for an apple tree sapling

How to plant an apple seed

  1. Soak the apple seeds in water overnight.
  2. Place the apple seeds in a wet towel. Then place that wet towel in a ziplock bag. Let it sit for 2 days, making sure the towel stays moist.
  3. Then, plant the seeds in your planter.
  4. Spray the soil every couple of days until you see the tree start to come through the soil.

One thing I learned...

  • Apple trees take a longer time to germinate, so be patient!

How long does it take for an apple seed to sprout?

An apple seed can take anywhere from 30-40 days to finally sprout. I like to use old milk jugs to start trees because they are tall enough to allow the roots to grow.

a half gallon milk jug being used as a plant pot and greenhouse for an apple seed

Poke holes in the bottom and cut off the top part of the milk jug and rest it on top of the jug to help act as a greenhouse for the seed. Just remove it once it's sprouted!

When should I plant it outside?

Once your apple tree is at least 1-2 years old, you can plant it outside. Don't plant your little tree sapling too soon though or animals (especially deer) will wreak havoc.

Or if you have a greenhouse, keep it in there during the summer months if your house is becoming too crowded with seedlings and other plants.

How to care for an apple tree sapling

infographic showing how to care for young apple trees

Once your apple tree has sprouted, water every 2-3 days until it's about 3 months old. Then, you can push that to once a week watering.

Place your young apple tree in a well-lit area of your home so it gets full sun or about 6-8 hours of sunlight.

Use a sandy or well-draining soil mix when you are starting it from a seed.

Lastly, you should wait to plant your tree in the ground until it's at least 1 to 2 years old.

You might also enjoy reading:

  • how to grow oak trees from acorns
  • how to grow lemon trees in pots
  • growing maple trees from seeds
  • How to water trees deeply

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