Growing Redwoods from Seed in Massachusetts: Low Success, But Possible

Can Coast Redwood Seeds Grow in Massachusetts?

Seeds brought from California. Challenges:

• Germination rate <10%.
• Redwoods need fog/mist; may dry out in MA climate.
• Cold hardiness uncertain.

Seed-Starting Protocol

1. Plant ≥20 seeds shallowly in cardboard/peat pot with sterile potting soil.
2. Seal pot in plastic bag with rubber band.
3. Keep moist in cool, indirect light (no sun).
4. When seedlings are a few inches tall, pot up with more soil; mist tops daily.

Reality Check

Low odds, but a fun experiment. Don’t expect a landscape tree.