How to Grow Joshua Trees from Seed
Joshua Tree Seed Incubator Kit Instructions
Growing a Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia) from seed is easy with the right conditions. Follow these instructions for the DesertUSA Joshua Tree Seed Incubator Germination Kit.
Instructional Video Coming Soon
We're preparing a step-by-step video showing how to plant and germinate Joshua tree seeds using the DesertUSA Incubator Kit. The video will be added to this page soon, so bookmark this page or scan the QR code included with your kit again to return.
1. Prepare the Soil
Soak the peat pellet in water until it fully expands. This normally takes less than a minute.
Remove the netting surrounding the pellet to release the soil. After preparing the soil, you should not need to add more water until the seeds have germinated.
2. Set Up the Incubator
Fill the incubator tray approximately halfway with the prepared soil. Save some of the soil to cover the seeds after planting.
3. Plant the Joshua Tree Seeds
Sprinkle the Joshua tree seeds over the soil.
Lightly cover the seeds with approximately 1/8 inch of soil.
4. Cover the Incubator and Keep It Warm
Secure the incubator cover and leave the vent hole open.
Place the incubator in a bright, warm location that stays approximately 75°F or warmer, but keep it out of direct sunlight.
Under suitable conditions, Joshua tree seeds typically germinate in approximately 10–21 days.
5. Care After Germination
Once the seeds have germinated, water sparingly. A spray bottle works well for lightly moistening the soil.
Keep the soil damp, but do not allow it to become waterlogged. Overwatering young Joshua tree seedlings should be avoided.
6. Transplanting Joshua Tree Seedlings
When the seedlings reach approximately 1 inch tall, transplant them into individual pots containing a well-draining cactus soil mix.
Make sure the pots have good drainage. Water sparingly and avoid keeping the soil continuously wet. As a general guideline, established young plants may need watering only about monthly, depending on their growing conditions.
Sun and Temperature
If you're growing Joshua trees in a desert climate, keep young seedlings in partial shade for approximately three years before exposing them to full desert sun.
Protect young Joshua trees from freezing temperatures when growing them outside their native desert environment.
Be Patient!
Joshua trees grow slowly. Don't be discouraged if your seedlings don't appear to be growing quickly. With proper light, drainage and careful watering, they can continue developing over time.
About the Joshua Tree
The Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia) is native to the Mojave Desert and is adapted to hot, dry conditions once established. Young seedlings, however, require more careful management of moisture, temperature and sunlight than mature Joshua trees.
FAQ
How long do Joshua tree seeds take to germinate?
Joshua tree seeds typically germinate in about 10–21 days when kept warm at approximately 75°F or above under suitable growing conditions.
How deep should Joshua tree seeds be planted?
Sprinkle the seeds over moist soil and cover them lightly with approximately 1/8 inch of soil.
Should Joshua tree seeds be kept in direct sunlight?
No. During germination, keep the incubator in a bright, warm location away from direct sunlight.
When should Joshua tree seedlings be transplanted?
Transplant seedlings when they reach approximately 1 inch tall. Use individual pots with a well-draining cactus soil mix.
How often should Joshua tree seedlings be watered?
After germination, water sparingly and keep the soil damp but never waterlogged. As the seedlings become established, allow the soil to drain and avoid overwatering.