Title: Mesquite Seed Germination - How To Grow Mesquite Trees From Seed
Headings: Sowing Mesquite Seeds: How And When To Plant Mesquite Seeds
Sowing Mesquite Seeds: How And When To Plant Mesquite Seeds
How to Grow Mesquite from Seed
Enhancing Mesquite Seed Germination
When to Plant Mesquite Seeds

Content: Sowing mesquite seeds for intentional propagation requires some specific steps to enhance germination. In the wild, any animal who eats a bean pod will spread the seed, and the animal’s digestive tract provides the necessary treatment to break embryo dormancy. For the home gardener, additional treatment will be necessary. Many experts state that growing mesquite from seed is the hardest way to propagate the plant. Air layering or propagation through grafting are common commercial methods. For mesquite seeds, the maximum germination occurs at temperatures of 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (27-29 C.). The seed does not need light to germinate but does best under 0.2 inches (0.5 cm.) of soil. Seedlings do need light to grow and soil temperatures of at least 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 C.). Scarification of the seed and a soak in sulfuric acid or horticultural vinegar enhances cotyledon emergence.