Expert: Tom Alonzo - 11/19/2006

Question
I have a sycamore seed pod thing I found by my favorite sycamore tree I pass by on my way to work and I want to start growing it so I can plant a tree in my yard.  Can you tell me how to go about doing this>  I live near Kincardine Ontario and want to know how hardy the tree is in this area.  I look forard to hearing from you.

Thank you. Janie

Answer
Hi Janie,
Thanx for your question.  The sycamore seeds are held in a fruitball at the end of autumn.  There is a central, hard core to which the seeds are attached.  The seeds have wisps of cotton so they can be carried by the wind.  In order to germinate, the sycamore fruit must be allowed to dry out completely and then experience at least 90 days of consistent temperatures at 40 degrees or below.  The seeds will break their dormancy after this when they are once again exposed to warm temperatures.  You can separate the seeds now if you have dried fruit balls and press them into the moist (not soggy) soil in a large pot.  Don't use too many seeds.  Cover them lightly and leave the pot outdoors for the winter, watering it periodically so it remains moist.  Some of the seedlings should sprout in the spring after the last frost and when it starts to warm up considerably.  Wait until your seedlings are about 4 inches tall before you transplant them to separate pots.  Let the seedlings grow to 1 foot before planting them out in the yard.  Ihope this helps.
Tom