Germinating Coast Redwood
All Coast Redwood seeds require a simple stratification process to germinate. Don’t worry, it’s easy.
- Soak the Sequoia sempervirens seeds for 24 hours in warm water. (Not hot water).
- Possibly add some Superthrive – these are some plant vitamins and amino acids. It’s not required, however we like to give our Sequoia sempervirens seedlings the best start in life.
- Mix the seeds with some peat free compost or an inert medium like vermiculite.
- Add the seeds to a polythene bag or small tub that will fit nicely in your fridge. Loosely seal the bag – some air exchange needs to occur.
- Check every few days to confirm the seeds are still moist – keeping them moist during this time is vital.
- Chill the seeds for 4 weeks in the fridge. Don’t forget to set a reminder for yourself to remove them.
- Move the Sequoia sempervirens seeds to a warm windowsill or heated propagator. Keep the seeds moist during this time.
- Once the seeds start to germinate you should prick them out and pot them on as soon as possible.
Germination of Sequoia sempervirens can be erratic. For seeds that don’t germinate in about two months, move them back to the fridge and repeat the stratification process.
An alternative way to sow the seeds is to follow nature, simply so the Sequoia sempervirens seeds in a tray outside in a sheltered location after the last frost and let nature take it’s course.
Germinating Dawn Redwood
All Dawn Redwood seeds require a simple stratification process to germinate. Don’t worry, it’s easy.
- Soak the Metasequoia glyptostroboides seeds for 24 hours in warm water. (Not hot water).
- Possibly add some Superthrive – these are some plant vitamins and amino acids. It’s not required, however we like to give our Metasequoia glyptostroboides seedlings the best start in life.
- Mix the seeds with some peat free compost or an inert medium like vermiculite.
- Add the seeds to a polythene bag or small tub that will fit nicely in your fridge. Loosely seal the bag – some air exchange needs to occur.
- Check them every few days to confirm the seeds are still moist – keeping them moist during this time is vital.
- The next step is to chill the seeds for 6 weeks in the fridge. Don’t forget to set a reminder for yourself to remove them.
- Move the Metasequoia glyptostroboides seeds to a warm windowsill or heated propagator. Keep the seeds moist during this time.
- Once the seeds start to germinate you should prick them out and pot them on as soon as possible.
Germination of Metasequoia glyptostroboides can be erratic. For seeds that don’t germinate in about two months, move them back to the fridge and repeat the stratification process.
An alternative way to sow the seeds is to follow nature, simply so the Metasequoia glyptostroboides seeds in a tray outside in a sheltered location after the last frost and let nature take it’s course.
Germinating Giant Redwood
All Giant Redwood seeds require a simple stratification process to germinate. Don’t worry, it’s easy.
- Soak the Sequoiadendron giganteum seeds for 24 hours in warm water. (Not hot water).
- Possibly add some Superthrive – these are some plant vitamins and amino acids. It’s not required, however we like to give our Sequoiadendron giganteum seedlings the best start in life.
- Mix the seeds with some peat free compost or an inert medium like vermiculite.
- Add the seeds to a polythene bag or small tub that will fit nicely in your fridge. Loosely seal the bag – some air exchange needs to occur.
- Check the seeds every few days to confirm the seeds are still moist – keeping them moist during this time is vital.
- Next, chill the seeds for 6 weeks in the fridge. Don’t forget to set a reminder for yourself to remove them.
- Move the Sequoiadendron giganteum seeds to a warm windowsill or heated propagator. Keep the seeds moist during this time.
- Once the seeds start to germinate you should prick them out and pot them on as soon as possible.
Germination of Sequoiadendron giganteum can be erratic. For seeds that don’t germinate in about two months, move them back to the fridge and repeat the stratification process.
An alternative way to sow the seeds is to follow nature, simply so the Sequoiadendron giganteum seeds in a tray outside in a sheltered location after the last frost and let nature take it’s course.
The Dawn Redwood – Metasequoia glyptostroboides is a magnificent deciduous conifer that, despite its prehistoric origins, makes a stunning addition to UK gardens. Once thought extinct and known only through fossils, it was rediscovered in China in the 1940s. These fast-growing trees can reach impressive heights, potentially exceeding 20 metres in UK conditions, though they typically grow smaller in gardens. With their elegant pyramidal shape, feathery foliage that turns bronze in autumn, and distinctive fluted trunk, Dawn Redwoods offer year-round interest and are surprisingly adaptable to various garden conditions.
Soil Requirements
Dawn Redwoods require well-draining soil to prevent root rot and other water-related issues. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0) and thrive in rich, loamy conditions with high organic matter content. Annual addition of compost or well-rotted manure helps maintain optimal soil quality and supports healthy growth.
Watering Guidelines
Young Trees (1-3 years) need consistent moisture to establish a strong root system. Water deeply once or twice weekly during the growing season, ensuring water reaches the root zone (45-60cm deep). Create a watering basin around the trunk to aid water penetration. Established trees are more drought-tolerant but benefit from deep watering during extended dry periods. Container-grown specimens require more frequent watering, as pots dry out faster than ground soil.
It’s important to note you cannot really over water a Dawn Redwood.
Seasonal Maintenance
Spring (March-May)
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to support new growth, and refresh the organic mulch layer, keeping it away from the trunk. Remove any winter damage and monitor for emerging pest issues.
Summer (June-August)
Maintain consistent soil moisture and perform any necessary light pruning for shape. Keep the base clear of grass and weeds, and watch for signs of drought stress, particularly during hot spells.
Autumn (September-November)
As the tree prepares for dormancy, reduce watering frequency. Clear fallen leaves to prevent pest harbourage and apply a fresh layer of mulch before winter sets in. This is also the last opportunity for any necessary pruning.
Winter (December-February)
While mature trees are generally hardy, young specimens may need protection from severe frost with horticultural fleece. Water only during dry, frost-free periods, and regularly check the tree’s structure while dormant.
Additional Care Notes
Dawn Redwoods are relatively low-maintenance once established, but proper care during the first few years is crucial for long-term success. They work well with shade-tolerant understory plants and can create striking vertical features in larger gardens. Regular monitoring for signs of stress, disease, or pest issues will help ensure the tree remains healthy and continues to thrive in your garden.
Remember that while these trees can grow quite large, they respond well to pruning and can be maintained at a more manageable size for smaller gardens. Their fast growth rate (potentially 50cm+ annually in good conditions) means they can quickly establish themselves as striking landscape features.
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