How to Start a Redbud Tree From Seed

Buy or gather redbud seeds when the pods become brown in autumn. Cut them off the tree with a pair of shears. If you collect your own seed, place the seed capsule on a paper towel on a counter to dry. Break the pod open by hand when it becomes brittle, to take a seed out.

Boil a small amount of water. Dunk the seed in the boiling water for one minute. Drain the liquid and save the redbud tree seed.

Moisten some sand and put it in a plastic bag. Transfer the redbud seed to the bag. Store it in the refrigerator for a minimum of five weeks and a maximum of eight weeks. Check the sand's moisture every few days. Irrigate it whenever it begins to dry.

Remove weeds, grass, rocks and other debris from a site in full sun or offering afternoon shade.

Loosen the ground with a shovel. Rake it to smooth the surface out.

Dig a hole ¼ inch deep. Plant the seed and cover it with a thin layer of topsoil.

Irrigate the seed at planting, moistening the soil to a depth of ½ to ¾ inch. Water the ground regularly to prevent it from drying out during germination.