Apple from seed to fruit

How to Grow An Apple Tree From Seed (Easy Tutorial)

Published on January 19, 2021 Last updated November 18, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Use this simple tutorial to grow an apple tree using the seeds found in fruit from the grocery store. It’s an excellent beginner project for anyone wanting to try simple plant propagation. This same method works for pears as well.

Want to turn other food into plants? See How to Grow Avocado From Seed.

Grow Your Own Apple Tree

Of all the ways we can encourage a love of plants, nature, and gardening, it seems that starting something quite prolific from seed—like an oak tree from an acorn or an apple tree from seed—are sure ways to create a lifelong interest in growing. And how cool is it that you take the seeds from fruit you’re eating and grow them into fruit-bearing trees?

Contents

Before You Start

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions there are a few things to know.

• For seeds to be viable (able to grow), they need to be mature. An apple you buy at the grocery store is very likely mature but an apple picked from a tree part way through the growing season will not have fully-formed seeds. So start with mature, ripe fruit.

• Apple seeds, along with other fruit seeds including pear, peach, and cherry, require stratification (cold, damp conditions) to prepare for germination. The amount of time required to stratify varies depending on the variety. It’s generally between 60 and 90 days. The instructions (below) show you how to mimic stratification.

• Not all apple seeds will sprout. Even if you do everything right, some types never sprout, and for those that do, only half may germinate. It varies a lot. So, increase your odds by starting a bunch, preferably from several different types of apples.

• You won’t get McIntosh apples from McIntosh seeds. Or any other variety (with a few exceptions*). If your apple seeds do grow to become fruit-bearing trees, the apples produced will not be same as the ones you started with. Most apple trees require cross-pollination from another apple tree so any apples produced will have genes from both (the tree you grew and the pollinator tree) and, similarly, no two seeds will produce genetically-identical trees. In other words: every seed has a different combination of genes. That’s why plant breeders who want specific varieties do not grow their trees from seed but instead propagate vegetatively, taking stems and grafting them onto other established rootstock, to grow genetically identical apples. *Antonovka seeds are one example of apple seeds that reproduce true to parent.

Personally, I love experimenting with seed starting, watching things grow, and propagating plants from food scraps is a favorite rabbit hole to explore.

And, what a wonderful thing for a child (or anyone) to grow something from a simple seed and nurture it for years to come.

How to Sprout Apple Seeds

This is how to germinate apple seeds. You can follow the same steps to sprout pear seeds as well.

Get Seeds Ready

Some apples have many seeds, some have few, others have none or just little white cases where you’d expect to find seeds. Pay attention to store bought apples like McIntosh, Delicious, Granny Smith, Sparta, Fuji, Gala, and so on, and, as you eat them, look for fully formed (dark brown) seeds.

It’s best to start quite a few (10-20) from different types of apples to increase your odds. If you do, be sure to keep each type separate and labelled so you know what worked.

Start with a ripe apple (one you would eat) to ensure the seeds inside are mature. Cut around the core to avoid damaging any of the seeds with your knife.

I like to take clear, close up pictures at this point so I have something to compare with later on.

Ever Find Sprouted Seeds In Your Apple?

When fruits become over-ripe, the hormones that control seed dormancy decline and the seeds within the fruit can actually start sprouting. This is called vivipary (“live birth”). If you ever find germinated seeds in your apple, sow them! And thank them for making propagation so easy.

Sand Seed Coats

Next, to help the process along, you can very gently soften the seed coat. I do this by folding a small piece of sandpaper with the right (rough) sides together. Insert one seed at a time and gently sand off a little bit of the coat by rolling everything between your fingers. Easy does it: you don’t want to expose the embryo inside.

Soak in Moist Paper Towel

Once sanded, spread your seeds out on a moist (not dry, not soaking wet) paper towel (or a dish cloth), fold it up, and place everything in a food storage container or plastic food bag.

You may see other methods where the seeds are placed in moist potting mix instead of paper towel. I prefer paper towel because it makes it easy to check on the seeds and see any sign of sprouting without having to dig them out and rinse them off.

Chill in Fridge

Add a tag or write on tape or with waterproof marker noting the seed name (McIntosh, Delicious, Granny Smith…) and the date.

Place in refrigerator and set a reminder on your phone to check on the seeds weekly.

Most fridges run around 35 to 38°F (1.7 to 3.3°C) and apple seeds do best around 40°F (4.4°C). With the insulation provided by the container and paper towel, our seeds in the fridge will do fine.

How long does it take for apple seeds to germinate?

Depending on the variety, they may need 60 to 90 days of moist and cold conditions to germinate. Never allow the paper towel to dry out or become waterlogged: just add moisture as needed.

When they have sprouted, they are ready for sowing.

If they haven’t sprouted after 90 days in the fridge, try setting the container on your countertop at room temperature and give them another few weeks. I’ve had some sprout this late, right when I was going to give up.

Planting Sprouted Apple Seeds

I’ve sprouted my apple seeds, now what?

While you could plant your apple tree seedling right in the garden (in spring or summer), it will be much easier to protect and care for it if you grow it in a container for as long as possible.

Start with a 4 to 6-inch wide (and deep) plastic flower pot with drainage holes and use organic potting mix.

This larger pot (in the photo, below) has seven apple tree seedlings. Once they get a bit bigger (about 6 to 8-inches tall), they should be transplanted into their own containers to avoid getting the roots tangled.

Frequently-Asked Questions

When Will My Apple Tree Produce Fruit?

With optimum growing conditions, it may take 7 to 10 years for the tree to flower and fruit—if it will do this at all. Some apple trees grown from seed will never fruit.

We grow from seed for fun but buy grafted apple trees if we want a tree that will provide a specific type of apple.

The whole topic of pollination is worth researching if you do get this far. If you want a chance of pollination (leading to fruit), there will need to be other apple trees nearby for cross-pollination.

Also, some types of apple tree including Jonagold and Gravenstein have sterile pollen and require pollen from two other trees for fertilization to take place. These are called ‘triploids’. So much to know!

Apple Tree Pollinators
Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are the most common pollinators for apple trees, along with orchard mason bees (Osmia lignaria), and (in much smaller numbers) bumblebee queens (Bombus genus). You may also notice that each variety of apple tree has its own time to flower from late winter to late spring. Fruit trees that flower at the same time are called ‘pollinator partners’.

Are Apple Seeds Toxic?

Apple seeds do contain cyanogenic glycoside, a cyanide-based compound. But it would take a very large dose to harm someone. That’s why it’s not an issue when we accidentally swallow seeds when eating apples. There are no cases of apple seed poisoning on record.

Can I Grow An Apple Tree Indoors?

It would be fun but no, not under normal household conditions. These are cold-hardy trees needing four seasons to flourish.

More Tutorials

I hope you’ll give this a try and be sure to sign up for the free Empress of Dirt Newsletter for new growing tips and creative garden ideas.

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22 Amazing Benefits And Uses Of Apples

Apples, be it red, green, yellow, or rose, are packed with countless vitamins, antioxidants, fiber, and other nutrients. Along with being excellent sources of energy, these oval shaped fruits are good for your skin, hair, and overall health. It is rightly said – ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’. The Red Delicious ones are the richest antioxidant sources, while Golden Delicious and Jonagolds varieties are packed with quercetin in admirable amounts. Read on further to know about the health, hair and skin benefits of apples.

Apple Benefits for Health:

1. Safeguards your heart:

Pectin, the soluble fiber in apples, prevents the accumulation of cholesterol along blood vessel wall lining, thus reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. The soluble fiber binds with fats in the intestine, preventing cholesterol rise in the body. Studies suggest that people who consumed 170 grams of apple a day are 50% less prone to stroke than those who did not. It contains potassium, a mineral that controls the blood pressure, reducing the risk heart attack.

2. Shields women against osteoporosis:

Apples are rich in the flavanoid phloridzin that safeguards women from osteoporosis during their menopausal stage. It also helps in rendering better bone density to women. Boron, found in apples, helps to strengthen the bones.

3. Good for your teeth:

Malic acid, present in apples, helps in cleaning the stains affecting the teeth, thus rendering whiter teeth. That is why it is one of the most prevalent ingredients in the commercial whitening toothpastes. Biting and chewing apple stimulates the production of saliva in the mouth, thwarting off the risk associated with tooth decay.

4. Keeps your gut clean and healthy:

Fiber rich apples are beneficial for intestinal disorders, including hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, and stomach cancer. Studies also indicate the use of apples to ease diarrhea and constipation. The high levels of fiber in apple pull water from the colon in case of constipation and absorb excess water in case of diarrhea. It cleanses and detoxifies the body, eliminating toxic metals such as lead and mercury. Regular intake of apple is known to reduce Clostridiales and bacteriodes in the large intestine.

5. Good for diabetics:

People with type 2 diabetes can snack on apples. A recent study suggests that people who consume at least one apple daily are 29% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Eat the fruit as a whole, and not in the form of apple juice. Certain compounds present in this fiber-rich fruit have the potential to prevent the enzymes from breaking down starch into simple sugars. Regular consumption of apples helps to control insulin levels by releasing sugar slowly into the blood stream. Being a natural source of soluble fibers, apples could also prevent drastic variations of blood sugar levels in diabetics.

6. For better lungs:

Apples are known to improve the health of the lungs. Regular inclusion of this fruit in your diet lowers the risk of respiratory diseases, including asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

7. Rich source of antioxidants:

The antioxidants present in apples improve the functioning of the immune system, thus protecting you from several diseases. It also minimizes the effects of free radicals in the body, thwarting off mental and physical degeneration.

8. Natural antidote for constipation:

Apple acts as a natural cleanser for the bowels, maintaining the proper functions of the digestive system. Fiber rich fruits like apple bind together the bits of food in the small intestine while drawing water to make the stool easier and softer to pass. Thus, it works as a natural antidote for constipation.

9. For a better immune system:

Apples contain the flavonoid quercetin, which is proven to improve the immunity levels. It also contains high levels of interleukin 4, a compound that induces the creation of infection fighting cells.

10. Improves neurological health:

Quercetin, the antioxidant present in apples, lowers the chances of cellular death triggered by oxidation of neurons. This, in turn, reduces the risk of dementia. The high levels of fiber and antioxidants in apples also protect from Parkinson’s disease. Regular consumption of apple juice can actually augment the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the grain. This, actually, results in improving the memory power and lowering the risk of age-related memory decline.

11. Natural anti-cancerous agent:

Apples are rich in anti-mutagenic, anti-proliferative, and anti-inflammatory properties. The high levels of flavonoids in apples help to reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer by up to 23%. Extracts from whole apple also reduce the risk of mammary tumors in the body. Oligosaccharides in apples kill up to 46% of cancer cells in colon. Regular consumption of apples also detoxifies the liver, preventing liver cancer.

12. For better energy levels:

Give yourself a dose of voluminous energy by munching an apple just before your endurance workout. Quercetin, the antioxidant, boosts the transportation of oxygen to the lungs. This, in turn, helps you exercise better and reap better benefits.

Apple Fruit Benefits for Skin:

Granny Smith and Red Delicious are known to be the best for the skin. Here are some of the benefits apples have in store for your skin:

13. Prevents premature ageing:

Apples are rich sources of Vitamin C, the vitamin that prevents premature ageing by boosting collagen synthesis. Along with Vitamin A, it scavenges the free radicals triggering the early onset of wrinkles, brown spots, and fine lines, the major signs of ageing. Hence include apples, along with its skin, at least thrice a week in your diet for a healthier and youthful skin.

14. Maintains your skin color:

Apple contains copper, a mineral required to produce melanin. Melanin is a pigment that provides color to the skin. It forms an essential part of other tissues as well, including the eyes and hair.

15. For a smooth, healthier skin:

Apple contains 0.40 milligrams of Vitamin E. Vitamin E helps the body to fight free radicals, protecting the skin from damage. This vitamin also helps in keeping the skin condition. This, in turn, ensures that the skin is healthy, smooth and young.

16. Skin regeneration:

Apple promotes the shedding of the old dead derma cells, thus paving way for the old skin cells skin regeneration and rejuvenation. Along with keeping the skin smooth, it keeps the skin free from irritations, inflammations, and redness.

17. Guards and heals your skin from sun:

Braeburn apple contains UVB defending particles, which protects the skin from sun damage. Apple should not be considered as a sunscreen substitute. It can only give you additional protection from the sunrays. To treat sunburn, add 1 teaspoon of glycerin to apple pulp. Mix it well and apply it on the affected areas. Wash it off with cold water to prevent blistering and skin peeling triggered by sunburns.

18. Skin disease:

Studies have indicated that eating an apple can reduce skin diseases. Regular consumption of apples provides the body with high levels of antioxidants, preventing cells and tissue damage.

How to use apples at home for better skin?

1. Application of apple pulp on the skin maintains the pH value of the skin, preventing skin infections. Take mashed apple and mix 1-teaspoon honey to it. Apply it on the face for and leave it for 20 minutes. Wash it off and pat dry.
2. Apple seeds are a rich source of Vitamin E. Mix ground seeds with honey to make a scrub. Use this scrub thrice a week to get rid of acne.
3. Application of mashed apple on the face can also help to eliminate wrinkles and blemishes.
4. Boil the apple slices in water and make a pulp out of it. Leave it aside to cool and apply it on the skin. This mask will make your skin bright and light.
5. Mix the wheat germ oil with apple puree to make a fine paste. Apply it on the face and leave it for a while to dry. The wheat germ oil will exfoliate the skin to remove dirt and impurities, while apple puree will provide a glow to the skin.
6. Green Apple juice is an excellent ingredient to tone tired and stressed out skin. Cut the green apple in small cubes and boil it in 300 ml water. Strain the infusion through a sieve and add 1/4 th cup of witch hazel to it. Use this toner every night to get a smooth and glowing skin.

Apple Benefits for Hair:

19. Promotes overall hair health:

Apple contains several vitamins that promote the overall health of the hair. Vitamin E promotes blood circulation in the scalp, accelerating hair growth. Vitamin B-6 in apple produces melanin for healthy hair color, preventing premature ageing.

20. Controls hair loss:

Apples contain minerals like magnesium, potassium, copper, and calcium. All these minerals help in lowering hair loss and maintaining a healthy scalp. It contains procyanidin, a natural compound that encourages the protein to promote hair growth. Thus, eat an apple daily to get long and lustrous hair.

21. Apple seeds for a longer, smoother hair:

Many hair care companies use apple to develop solutions for hair growth. Apple seed contains Vitamin E, which stimulates the growth of the hair. It is also used as a conditioning agent in hair products.

22. Natural hair rinse:

Rinsing hair with apple cider vinegar or apple juice helps to balance the pH Levels of the hair, removing build up on your hair shaft. This makes the hair shiny, smooth and easy to manage.

How to make homemade apple juice?

Instead of shelling out huge bucks from your pocket to purchase your favorite brand of apple juice, you can prepare a glassful at home now.

• Red apples – 3, along with skin
• Sugar – according to taste
• Water – 5 cups

1. Core apples and add it to a heavy bottom pan along with the peel and water.
2. Allow the mixture to come boiling point, lower the heat, and simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes or until water absorbs the flavor and color of the apples. Keep stirring intermittently.
3. Drain, discard the slices, and add sugar for extra sweetness.
4. Allow to cool completely.

Delicious apple juice is ready to be served.

Benefits of Apple Juice

You can reap the following benefits by regular inclusion of apple juice in your diet:

• Drinking 12 oz. of apple juice daily reduces oxidation of low-density lipoprotein by 20%.
• Regular consumption of apple juice lowers the risk of coronary diseases. It also reduces the risk of metabolic syndrome.
• Apple juice lowers the levels of C-reactive protein, whose presence suggests an increased risk of diabetes.
• It is believed that drinking apple juice can slow the mental decline in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Why should you eat apple peels?

• Eat apples with their skin to improve the levels of nutrients in the body. It provides two to six times more antioxidants than the fruit.
• The skin of apples is an excellent beauty-enhancing agent. Grind the skin of the apple into a fine paste and add two teaspoons of honey to it. Apply this paste regularly to get a beautiful skin.
• The phenolic compounds present in apple skins prevent the cholesterol from getting deposited on the arterial walls, reducing the risk of coronary artery disease.

Safety profile:

• Apple seeds are toxic when eaten in high doses. It should be completely avoided by pregnant and lactating women.
• According to a research, non- organic apple juice may contain arsenic. So consume only organic apple juice.
• Apple has been found to be the most heavily pesticide contaminated fruit. The most common pesticides found are Permethrin and DDT. Try to purchase organic apples and wash them thoroughly before consuming.

Apple Nutritional Value:

Nutritive value per 100 g of fresh apple [Source: USDA]

Energy	50 Kcal	2.5%
Carbohydrates	13.81 g	11%
Protein	0.26 g	0.5%
Total Fat	0.17 g	0.5%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Dietary Fiber	2.40 g	6%
Vitamins
Folates	3 Вµg	1%
Niacin	0.091 mg	1%
Pantothenic acid	0.061 mg	1%
Pyridoxine	0.041 mg	3%
Riboflavin	0.026 mg	2%
Thiamin	0.017 mg	1%
Vitamin A	54 IU	2%
Vitamin C	4.6 mg	8%
Vitamin E	0.18 mg	1%
Vitamin K	2.2 Вµg	2%
Electrolytes
Sodium	1 mg	0%
Potassium	107 mg	2%
Minerals
Calcium	6 mg	0.6%
Iron	0.12 mg	1%
Magnesium	5 mg	1%
Phosphorus	11 mg	2%
Zinc	0.04 mg	0%
Phyto-nutrients
Carotene-Гџ	27 Вµg	—
Crypto-xanthin-Гџ	11 Вµg	—
Lutein-zeaxanthin	29 Вµg	—

Apples for weight loss

Munch an apple just before you indulge in your meal to shed those excess pounds. An apple contains just 60 calories, making it a perfect food for weight loss. A study has concluded that women who ate an apple before their meals lost almost 33% more weight that those who did not eat. Fiber in pectin keeps one full for longer time, acting as a natural hunger suppressant.

Do you eat apples? If not, then these benefits will surely tempt you to include apples in your diet.

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