Are Fallen Acorns Alive? Seed Viability and Germination

Yes, acorns are alive when they fall. They are the living seeds of oak trees, containing a dormant embryo with stored energy (cotyledons) and a protective coat.

Natural Cycle

• Acorns drop in autumn.
• They require cold stratification (30–60 days near freezing) to break dormancy.
• In nature, they lie under leaf litter through winter, germinating in spring when soil warms and moisture is adequate.

Storage for Planting

To mimic nature:

1. Collect sound, mature acorns (sink in water = viable; floaters often damaged).
2. Store in moist (not wet) peat moss or sand in a sealed container.
3. Refrigerate at 32–40°F (0–4°C) for 1–3 months.
4. Check periodically; plant immediately if radicles (roots) emerge (>1 inch long = fragile).
5. Sow 1 inch deep in pots or prepared beds in spring.

Key Point

Acorns desiccate quickly if left dry at room temperature—viability drops sharply within weeks. Keep them cool and moist until planting.