The Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) is a unique, ancient tree, a “living fossil” rediscovered after being thought extinct. This deciduous conifer, known for its rapid growth and elegant pyramidal shape, offers a distinctive presence in various landscapes. Propagating this species means creating new plants, a rewarding endeavor for cultivators.
Understanding Dawn Redwood Propagation
Dawn Redwood propagation involves specific methods. While grown from seeds or cuttings, each has unique considerations. Seeds require cold, moist stratification, mimicking winter to break dormancy. Cuttings are taken during specific growth stages for optimal rooting.
Patience is key; establishing a young plant takes time. Suitable moisture, light, and temperature are essential.
Propagating Dawn Redwood from Seeds
Seed propagation requires preparation. Freshly collected seeds benefit from cold, moist stratification, mimicking winter to improve low germination. To stratify, mix seeds with a moist medium (e.g., peat moss, vermiculite) in a sealed container; refrigerate for 3-4 months at 36-41°F (2-5°C) to break dormancy.
After stratification, prepare a well-draining sowing medium (potting soil, perlite, sphagnum moss, or sand). Moisten soil until damp, not soggy. Sow stratified seeds 1/8 inch deep; light is required for germination. Plant multiple seeds per pot due to low germination rates (around 5%).
Optimal germination conditions. Maintain consistent temperatures: 65-75°F (18-24°C) day, 55-60°F (13-16°C) night. Place pots in bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sun until seedlings develop.
High humidity (70-80%) is beneficial, achieved by daily misting or plastic bag cover. Keep soil consistently moist, not waterlogged; mist lightly if surface dries. Germination typically occurs within 30-40 days.
Propagating Dawn Redwood from Cuttings
Cuttings reliably create new trees identical to the parent. Optimal cutting times: late spring/early summer (new growth), early to mid-autumn (semi-hardwood), or early spring/early winter (hardwood). Select healthy, 6-8 inch stems, ideally pencil-thick. Make a clean, 45-degree angled cut below a leaf node, where roots emerge. Remove lower leaves to prevent rot and reduce moisture loss.
Dip cut end into rooting hormone for success. Prepare a well-draining rooting medium (e.g., sand, perlite, peat moss, compost). Insert the treated cutting, burying at least two nodes.
Successful rooting requires specific conditions. Maintain humidity with a propagation tray/dome or plastic bag cover. Regular misting hydrates cuttings. Bottom heat (70°F/21°C) improves rooting.
Keep rooting medium consistently moist, not waterlogged, to prevent fungal issues. Roots typically form in 1-2 months (up to three). A gentle tug after a month indicates if roots are holding.
Caring for Young Dawn Redwood Plants
Young seedlings and rooted cuttings require specific care after propagation. Once seedlings reach 3-4 inches or cuttings develop robust roots, transplant into individual containers. Use a well-draining soil mix (e.g., garden soil, perlite, compost, or loam, sand, compost). For seedlings, planting the entire peat pot minimizes root disturbance.
Watering is important. They prefer consistently moist soil; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot. During active growth (spring/summer), water weekly, or daily for containerized plants in warm conditions. Check top 1-2 inches of soil for dryness before re-watering. Reduce watering in fall and winter as the plant enters dormancy.
Young plants initially need bright, indirect light, gradually acclimating to full sun. Mature Dawn Redwoods thrive in full sun, needing at least six hours daily for optimal growth. Protect young plants from extreme temperatures or frost.
Once established (a full growing season), gradually acclimatize young trees to outdoor conditions for permanent planting. Ideal outdoor planting: early fall (after leaf drop, before ground freezes) or late winter/early spring. Choose a site with full sun and ample space; trees can reach 70-100 feet tall, 15-25 feet wide.