Propagating Sycamore: Seeds Work, Cuttings Don't

Mature sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) cuttings won’t root conventionally. Use seeds or suckers.

Seed Method

• Collect fresh seeds from current season’s balls.
• Plant in moist soil; seal in bag; refrigerate winter.
• Warm in spring; seedlings emerge in weeks.
• Or leave pots outdoors winter; keep watered.

Sucker Method

• Detach basal suckers with roots.
• Dip in hormone; plant in warm, wet sand.
• Mist; roots in ~8 weeks.

Air layering is possible but advanced. Seeds are easiest.