How to Germinate a Cherry Seed (Step-by-Step Guide)

Growing a cherry tree from a seed is a fun and rewarding project for gardeners of all skill levels.
Cherry seeds need proper cleaning, cold stratification, and steady moisture to sprout successfully.
This step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to germinate a cherry seed indoors using the safest
and most reliable method.

What You Need

  • Fresh cherry seeds (pits)
  • Small bowl of water
  • Paper towels
  • Resealable plastic bag
  • Refrigerator
  • Potting soil
  • Small pot with drainage holes

Step 1: Clean the Cherry Seeds

Begin by removing the seeds from ripe cherries. Rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove
all fruit residue. This step prevents mold during the germination process.

Step 2: Dry the Seeds

Lay the seeds on a paper towel and let them air dry for 24 hours. This helps prepare the seeds for
stratification and reduces moisture buildup.

Step 3: Cold Stratify the Seeds

Cherry seeds require a cold period to break dormancy. This process is called
cold stratification.

  1. Dampen a paper towel (not soaking wet).
  2. Place the cherry seeds inside the towel.
  3. Slip the towel into a resealable plastic bag.
  4. Store the bag in the refrigerator for 8–12 weeks.

Check the seeds every 1–2 weeks to ensure the towel stays slightly moist. Replace the towel if mold appears.

Step 4: Wait for Sprouting

After several weeks, tiny white roots may begin emerging from the seeds. Most cherry seeds sprout
between 8–12 weeks, but some varieties may take longer.

Step 5: Plant the Sprouted Cherry Seeds

Once your cherry seeds have sprouted, plant each seed in a small pot filled with well-draining soil.
Place the seed root-down at a depth of about 1 inch.

Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Step 6: Provide Light and Warmth

Place the pot in a warm room with bright, indirect sunlight. Cherry seedlings grow best in temperatures
between 65–75°F (18–24°C).

When to Move the Seedling Outdoors

After the last frost of spring, gradually introduce the seedling to outdoor light and weather. This
“hardening off” process helps the young plant adjust before being transferred into the ground.

How Long Cherry Seeds Take to Germinate

  • Cold stratification: 8–12 weeks
  • Sprouting: During or after stratification
  • Seedling growth: Visible 1–3 weeks after planting

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a cherry tree grown from seed produce fruit?

Yes, but the fruit may not be identical to the parent cherry. Trees grown from seed often produce unique
or slightly different varieties.

Do cherry seeds need stratification?

Absolutely. Cold stratification is essential for cherry seed germination. Without it, the seed will remain dormant.

Can I skip cleaning the seeds?

No. Removing all fruit residue helps prevent mold during stratification.

Why didn’t my cherry seeds sprout?

Some cherry varieties naturally take longer to germinate. Extend stratification for 2–4 more weeks if needed.