Malus domestica (Apple) originated in Central Asia and is the most widely cultivated apple species worldwide. Apple seeds exhibit deep physiological dormancy requiring 60-120 days of cold moist stratification (preferably at 3-5°C) to break dormancy and achieve germination rates of 30-60%.
Before sowing
Soak seeds 12-24 hours in warm water, then cold stratify for 60-120 days (optimal 90 days) at 3-5°C in moist sand or paper towel
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Maintain high humidity and well-draining soil during germination. Keep seedlings under full sun once emerged. Do not press seeds into soil. Transplant to individual pots once seedlings develop true leaves (about 5cm tall). Chill requirements: apples need 900-1000 hours below 7°C for flowering and fruiting.
Sources: PFAF Plant Database, USDA ARS, Ystwyth Valley Apple Breeders, Springer Nature, scientific literature on Malus domestica dormancy
