I am trying to grow California Buckeyes (Aesculus californica) for my school. Does anyone here know the right way to propagate them from seed, or at least know a website that describes the method? This is what I have done so far: I have planted the buckeyes in 5 gallon pots with well draining soil. I put two or three in each pot, just barely burying the buckeyes. I have kept the pot constantly moist, but not soggy or like a bog. Is this the right way?
With buckeyes in general....plant as soon as ripe. They do not tolerate any drying out whatsoever. California Buckeye also generally germinate as soon as planted & it does not require cold stratification (same for many buckeye species). Germination will start with the growth of a long tap root, you may not see any above ground action for a while. Try leaving the pots outside, bringing them in only if a frost is predicted, and keep them moist, not wet.
So when is a good time to transplant it into the ground? We (in sunny and dry Salinas, CA) have one that's now about 6" tall that grew from a seed. What fertilizer balance is best, and what transplanting prep do you recommend?? Thanks, Melissa & Nick California Buckeyes