The dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) is one of the few deciduous conifers. This guide covers growing one from seed, plus our own grow log from the Spring Mason kit.
Quick facts
| Botanical name | Metasequoia glyptostroboides |
|---|---|
| Native range | Remote valleys of central China |
| Mature size | 70 to 100 feet tall |
| Lifespan | Several centuries |
| Sunset climate zones | 3-10, 14-24 |
| Annual growth rate | 2 to 4 ft per year |
| Seed source | [State] [Year] |
| Time to germinate | [Your data: days from sowing to sprout in the kit] |
| Difficulty | [Your rating: easy / moderate / challenging] |
Seed and germination
- Scarification (soaking): [Your data]
- Cold Stratification: [Your data]
- Germination: [Your data]
Watch our dawn redwood seeds go from sowing to sprout on our YouTube channel, @SpringMasonTV.
Growing in the kit
[Your data: how the kit is set up, how much water the reservoir holds, how often to refill it, where to place it for light, and what temperatures work.]
Dawn redwoods are happy with consistently moist soil and bright light. Unlike most conifers they are deciduous, so turning color and dropping needles in autumn is normal dormancy, not a problem.
Year one and beyond
[Your data: milestones, such as first true leaves, height at 4, 8 and 12 weeks, and when a seedling is ready to move to a larger pot or the ground.]
The dawn redwood was known only from fossils until living trees were found in China in the 1940s. It is a fast grower that does best with plenty of moisture and room to spread.
Our grow log
| Date | Stage | Height | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| [Date sown] | Sown | [Your notes] | |
| [Date] | Germinated | [Your notes] | |
| [Date] | [Stage] | [Height] | [Your notes] |
[Time-lapse video goes here.]
Troubleshooting and FAQ
My seeds are not sprouting. Not every seed is viable. [Your data: how many seeds are in the vial and the germination rate we see.]
My seedling is collapsing or has gray mold. Seedlings are prone to damping-off, a fungal problem linked to excess moisture and poor airflow. [Your data: what to look for and what to do.]
Can I plant it outside? Dawn redwoods suit Sunset climate zones 3-10 and 14-24. [Your data: climate guidance and timing.]
Sources
- Oregon State University Landscape Plants, Metasequoia glyptostroboides (size, native range, cones)
- Gardenia.net, Metasequoia glyptostroboides (growth rate, climate zones)