Monterey cypress trees, which are also called Cupressus macrocarpa, are native to California, where they grow in coastal areas. The tree also grows in Hawaii in the U.S. and overseas in Australia, Europe, South America and New Zealand. The trees are most known for the twisted, gnarled appearance of the trunk and branches. You can grow Monterey cypress trees from seeds as long you prepare the seeds properly.

  • Monterey cypress trees, which are also called Cupressus macrocarpa, are native to California, where they grow in coastal areas.
  • You can grow Monterey cypress trees from seeds as long you prepare the seeds properly.

Lay a strong paper towel flat on a table and spread the Monterey cypress seeds onto it evenly. Place another paper towel on top of the seeds to cover them.

Fold the paper towel and place it into a clear, gallon-size plastic storage bag.

Pour 1/8 to 1/4 cup of water into the bag to moisten the paper towel completely.

  • Pour 1/8 to 1/4 cup of water into the bag to moisten the paper towel completely.

Seal the bag and place it into a refrigerator that maintains a temperature of 1.11 degrees Celsius. Leave the bag there for 30 days.

Remove the bag from the refrigerator and remove the paper towel.

Fill a 5- to 6-inch diameter plant pot 3/4 full of an all-purpose potting soil.

Place three to four Monterey cypress seeds on top of the soil at equal distances. Cover the seeds with additional soil just until they are no longer visible.

Place the pot in an outdoor location that receives full sunlight if the outdoor temperature is above 22.2 degrees Celsius. Otherwise, place it indoors near a window and set it on a heating mat with a temperature of 22.2 degrees Celsius.

Water the soil as often as needed to keep it constantly moist until the Monterey cypress seeds germinate.

TIP

Monterey cypress seeds have a low germination rate, so plant twice as many seeds as the number of trees you want.