How to Plant Black Locust Seeds

About Black Locust

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) is a U.S. native legume (yellow locust). Reaches 60 ft tall, 30 in wide. Fragrant white flowers May–June. Seeds Sept–April. Easy propagation. Best seed production at 15–20 years.

Seed Planting Steps

Step 1: Harvest Ripe Pods

Collect Sept–April when pods turn brown, dry, and split easily.

Step 2: Store or Plant

Plant immediately or store in airtight container in fridge (viable several years).

Step 3: Stratify

Soak seeds in hot water 24 hours for best germination.

Step 4: Prepare Container

Use lightweight potting mix with organic matter in drained container. Water.

Step 5: Sow

Make 1-inch indentation. Place seed, cover with soil.

Step 6: Germinate

Water again. Keep moist (not flooded) 1 week–2 months until germination. Continue moist.

Step 7: Light

Full to partial sun for germination. Shade-tolerant once established in ground.

Step 8: Transplant

After ~4 months when root system established, transplant to ground.