Growing a Magnolia from Seed: George Washington's Tree

Propagating Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) from Seed

Seeds collected from a historic magnolia at Mount Vernon can be grown with proper handling. Fresh seeds need cleaning and stratification; stored seeds require careful temperature management.

Seed Preparation

1. Soak seeds overnight in warm water to soften the fleshy coat.
2. Rub against hardware cloth or screen to remove the coat.
3. Sow immediately or stratify: layer seeds in moist sand/peat in a sealed bag, refrigerate at 40°F for 3–6 months.

Sowing and Care

• Plant seeds ¼–½ inch deep in well-draining potting mix.
• Keep moist, not soggy; mulch to retain moisture.
• Provide partial shade for first summer.
• Transplant to ground when seedlings reach 6–18 inches.

Magnolia seeds germinate readily with consistent warmth (70–80°F) and moisture.