Collecting and Germinating Catalpa Tree Seeds

Seed Collection

• Collect brown, drying capsules (8–20″ long) in late winter/early spring.
• Don't leave too long—insect infestation risk.
• Store dry, cold.

Sowing

• Sow outdoors or in cold frame when ripe.
• Stratify stored seed 3 weeks at 35°F, sow spring.
• Transplant seedlings to individual pots, overwinter in cold frame.
• Plant out after last frost.

Key Takeaway

Catalpa seeds need cold stratification. Collect ripe pods, store cool, stratify, and sow for reliable germination.