How to Grow an Osage Orange From a Seed

Overview

The Osage Orange tree (Maclura pomifera), also called the Mock Orange or Hedge Apple, is a hardy tree that can grow up to 40 feet tall. The tree is extremely hardy and can withstand winter temperatures down to -25 degrees Fahrenheit. Grown in rows as natural borders or hedges, the Osage Orange produces 6-inch-diameter fruits that resemble bumpy, green, wrinkled grapefruits or large oranges. The fruit attracts squirrels and has a slight orange scent. The seeds are the only part of the fruit that are edible.

Step 1

Soak the Osage Orange seeds in warm water for about 48 hours prior to planting.

Step 2

Fill a seed tray that has drainage holes in the bottom with a mixture of equal parts potting soil, peat moss, organic compost and coarse sand. Spread a 3-inch layer of the potting mix into the bottom of the seed tray.

Step 3

Plant the seeds about a quarter- to half-inch deep and firm the soil down with your hands.

Step 4

Place the seed tray in full sunlight. Keep the seeds at room-temperature, between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5

Water the seeds daily with warm water until the seedlings begin to sprout. Cut back on watering to once every three or four days to keep the potting mix evenly moistened but not waterlogged.

Step 6

Transplant your young Osage Orange tree the following spring in a location that receives full to partial sunlight and has well-draining, sandier soil. Water the young trees once each week during the first two growing seasons to help the roots become established.