How to Sprout Hickory Nuts in Horticulture

There are about 25 varieties of Hickory trees in the Northeastern United States. The shellbark hickory is one of the most common in North America. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, they are grown well in zones four to eight. With a bit of work, you can grow your own from a hickory nut seed.

Supplies:

• Hickory nut seeds


• Plastic zip lock bags


• Sand


• Peat moss


• Bowls


• Plant sprayer


• Gallon pots


• Potting soil

1. Soak the hickory nuts in a bowl of water for three days. Change the water daily for best results.


2. Combine the sand and peat moss in equal measures in another bowl and add water. Make the soil moist, but not saturated. Place it into a sealable Ziplock bag.


3. Take the nuts out of the water. Place them into the bag with the mixture. Remove the air and seal it shut.


4. Store the bag for a period of three months in a temperature of between 35 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. A basement or the refrigerator are good options. Check the bag weekly to make sure it remains moist. Use plant sprayer as needed.


5. Remove the nuts from the bag after the 90-day period and plant them in them in one of the gallon pots.


6. Fill the one-gallon pots with potting soil, adding water until the soil is moist.


7. Plant the seeds at least two-inches deep. Make sure the seeds are covered with potting soil.


8. Place the planted pots in an area with a temperature between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure the soil remains moist. The seeds will begin to germinate in about 30 days.


9. Plant the seedlings in a designated spot in your yard or garden after they reach three to six inches. For best results, plant them in an area that allows for root growth.