How to Grow Dogwood Trees from Seed

Overview

Dogwood trees (Cornus spp.) are flowering landscape staples with species native to North America, growable in USDA Zones 2–9. Varieties bloom in white, red, red-pink, pink, yellow. Growing from seed yields seedlings for new trees.

Step 1: Collect Seeds

Fall: gather red berries (seeds) from blossoms. Pull carefully. Use extra seeds—germination varies.

Step 2: Clean Seeds

Soak in water 2 days to soften pulp. Rub off outer pulp.

Step 3: Sow in Trays

Mix ½ peat moss, ½ sand. Plant seeds ½ inch deep, 1 inch apart, rows 6 inches apart. Water thoroughly.

Step 4: Overwinter Outdoors

Cover with thin mulch/compost. Screen to deter animals. Leave outside until spring; water only if bone dry.

Step 5: Spring Seedling Care

When seedlings emerge, water ¼ cup twice weekly (adjust for container). Keep soil moist. Continue through fall if no rain.

Step 6: Fertilize

10-10-10 every 6 weeks until Sept. 1 tsp/sq ft around each seedling. Water after.

Step 7: Transplant

First or second winter: dig hole same depth as container, 2x width. Remove seedling carefully, plant, backfill, water thoroughly.