Hawthorn is a beautiful flowering tree that produces edible berries loved by birds Also known as May tree, Quickthorn or Whitethorn, hawthorn (Crataegus species) can be a great addition to any garden Growing hawthorn from seed may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and care, you can have your own hawthorn tree. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through each step of the process.
Why Grow Hawthorn?
There are many great reasons to grow your own hawthorn tree:
- Beautiful spring blossoms with a sweet, almond-like scent
- Red berries that attract birds and wildlife
- Compact size, growing 10-15 feet tall
- Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions
- Provides food and shelter for pollinators
- Edible leaves, flowers and berries for humans too
- Long lifespan of up to 400 years!
When to Collect Hawthorn Seeds
Timing is crucial when collecting hawthorn seeds. The berries (also called haws) should be harvested in early fall when they are fully ripe and red. This is typically between early October and late November. Pick them directly from the tree branches to avoid damaging the plant. Select plump, deep red berries and avoid any that are shriveled.
After collecting, remove the seeds from the pulp right away. Rinse off any remaining flesh and allow to dry on a towel or screen for a few days. Well-dried seeds can then be stored in envelopes or breathable containers in the refrigerator until planting.
Stratifying Hawthorn Seeds
Due to their hard outer coating, hawthorn seeds require a period of cold, moist stratification to break dormancy before they will germinate
The easiest method is refrigerator stratification. Simply place seeds in a plastic bag with equal parts damp peat moss, vermiculite or sand. Seal and refrigerate for 90-120 days, checking moisture levels periodically.
For a more natural approach, bury seeds in a mix of equal parts peat moss and sand. Store the container at 33-40°F and ensure consistent moisture for 2-4 months.
How to Plant Stratified Hawthorn Seeds
In early spring after stratification, hawthorn seeds are ready for sprouting. Choose from these planting options:
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Outdoors: Sow seeds 1 inch deep in prepared garden soil. Space 12-18 inches apart.
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Seed trays: Use starter mix and plant 1-2 seeds per cell. Keep warm (65-75°F) until sprouted.
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Pots: Fill with seed starting mix, sow seeds just below surface. Provide warmth and light.
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Beds: Broadcast seeds closely in rows in a nursery bed outdoors. Cover with 1⁄4 inch grit.
Water gently after planting and maintain even moisture. Protect newly planted seeds from birds.Germination can take 4-18 months due to the hard seed coat. Be patient!
Caring for Hawthorn Seedlings
As seedlings emerge, remove weaker plants to leave the strongest one per container or planting spot. Water regularly during the first year. After 12-18 months, transplant outdoors when dormant in late fall or winter.
Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Amend if needed to create ideal growing conditions. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Carefully place the seedling at the same level as it was growing and backfill the hole. Water thoroughly.
For the first 2-3 years, irrigate during drought and protect from deer, rabbits and rodents with fencing. Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture. Hawthorn is relatively pest and disease resistant once established. Minimal pruning is required, mostly to shape trees when young.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Here are some potential problems and solutions for growing hawthorn from seed:
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Seeds fail to germinate: Old or unripe seed, improper stratification, planting too deep, temperature/moisture issues. Start over with fresh seed.
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Poor seedling growth: Underwatering, insufficient light, root disturbance upon transplanting. Improve growing conditions.
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Leaf spots or mildew: Avoid wetting foliage, increase sunlight and air flow, use organic fungicides. Prune affected parts.
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Dropped leaves or dieback: Underwatering, overwatering, extreme weather shifts. Check soil drainage and moisture. Mulch.
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Wildlife damage: Use deterrent sprays, netting/fencing until established.
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Leaning trunk: Exposed site, weak root system. Stake until strong roots develop.
Be Patient for Your Own Hawthorn Tree
Growing hawthorn from seed is an exercise in patience. The waiting period for germination can seem long, but the rewards are well worth it. In a few short years, you’ll have your own beautiful hawthorn tree that will provide interest, food and habitat for decades to come. Follow these tips and enjoy the journey as your seeds become magnificent mature trees.
How to Grow a Hawthorn from Seed
FAQ
Do hawthorn seeds need cold stratification?
Is hawthorn hard to grow?
Where is the best place to plant hawthorn?
How do you propagate Hawthorns?
Place the cuttings in a bright location at 15 to 20 °C and keep them moist over the next few weeks. Hawthorns are easiest to propagate by layering in autumn. To do this, place a shoot without leaves into the ground, leaving it attached to the mother plant – do not cut it off!
How do you grow a hawthorn tree?
Hawthorn grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. Early spring or early fall is a good time to plant nursery-grown trees. After planting, water them well and cover the soil around the tree with a thick layer of mulch to prevent weeds from growing. Harvest the fruit at the end of the growing season and store it in a cool, dry place.
Can you grow Hawthorn plants from seeds?
Growing hawthorn plants from seeds can be a rewarding experience. By properly storing, sowing, and germinating hawthorn seeds, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of these plants in your own garden. Remember to follow the steps outlined in this guide and be patient, as hawthorn seeds can take several weeks to germinate.