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The Daily Insight

How long does it take for an apple seed to grow into a tree?

Author

Owen Barnes

Updated on May 18, 2026

How long does it take for an apple seed to grow into a tree?

between 7 to 10 years
Also, it takes a long time to grow an apple tree from seed— it takes between 7 to 10 years before you will be able to tell if your tree will have good fruit.

How do you grow an apple tree from a seed?

You will need to place many seeds (they only have a 30% germination rate) in a bag with damp moss. Place in the refrigerator for about 6 weeks, then plant in a pot. You will later need to prune and train it to be a proper apple tree.

How do you prepare apple seeds for planting?

Place the seeds between two layers of damp paper towels or tissue in an airtight container. Apple seeds need a period of chilling, or stratification, before they begin to sprout, so place the container in the refrigerator for at least two to three weeks – even up to a month or more. Then watch and wait.

Do apple seeds need to dry before planting?

The seeds need to be kept under moist refrigeration for at least 6 weeks before they’re planted. Place apple seeds in a moist paper towel, and then put that paper towel inside a plastic bag, leaving it open just a crack for air exchange. That’s a good thing since apple seeds have a very low germination rate.

Are apple trees hard to grow?

Growing apple trees organically can be challenging. Sadly, fruit trees also have a down side because they experience pest and disease problems, poor production, and nutrient deficiencies. And growing apple trees is notoriously difficult. When growing apple trees, there are so many potential problems to contend with.

Are apple trees easy to grow?

Can I plant and grow an apple tree from seed?

While a tree grown from an apple seed is likely to be disappointing, it’s not difficult to germinate apple seeds. Apple seeds need to be exposed to cool, moist conditions before they will germinate. The cool, moist requirement can be accomplished by planting apple seeds outdoors in fall. Plant the seeds 1/2 inch deep.

How to grow an apple tree from seed?

1. Prepare your pot and soil. Your seeds will need to be planted outside in a prepared seedbed or in a pot. Use a good potting mix. Apple seeds grow

  • 2. Place the seed in the divots of soil. Put the seeds into the soil divots and then cover them,making sure to gently pat the soil down. Water the
  • 3. Keep the pot at room temperature. While growing in the pot,the seed and soil should be kept at,or slightly higher than,room temperature. The
  • 4. Watch your seedling for growth. Several weeks after planting,your seeds should begin to start throwing up little leaves. From there they will grow
  • How long does it take for an apple tree to grow?

    Apple Rootstock and Tree Size An apple tree can be a standard or full-sized tree which grows to 30 feet tall; standard trees can take up to 6 years to bear first fruit. An apple tree can be a dwarf or semi-dwarf tree that grows less than half the size of a standard. A grafted apple tree has a root system that is different from the fruit-producing portion of the tree.

    How to care for newly planted apple?

    Cut the tree back to a height of 30 to 40 inches the day you plant it,removing any side branches.

  • Spread wood mulch in a 3-foot circumference around the tree,making the mulch 3 or 4 inches deep.
  • Stake the tree to protect it until the trunk is strong enough to withstand windy weather.