Magnolia grandiflora, also known as Southern magnolia or bull bay, is a native to North America and is in the family Magnoliaceae. Reaching a height of 60 to 90 feet at maturity, the magnolia grows best in USDA planting zones 7 through 9. The tree produces large, white blossoms in spring though fall. Reddish-brown fruits then form and the cone-like fruits hold the seeds. Propagating a magnolia tree from seed is a relative easy task and within no time, you should have a young seedling ready for transplanting into the garden.
Wait for the fruit to mature before picking the cone from the magnolia tree. Cut the fruit from the tree and lay it on a newspaper to dry. Allow the fruit to completely dry before extracting the seeds. When the seeds are ready for planting, they will fall from the cone when shaken.
Remove the magnolia seeds from the cone and place them into a container filled with warm water. Allow the seeds to soak for 24 hours.
Remove the seeds from the water and clean off the outer flesh. Rub the seed against a rough cloth to help in removing the outer coating.
Fill a quart container with a potting mix high in organic material and drain very well. Make a 1/4-inch indentation in the center of the soil with your finger. Place the seed into the indentation and cover it with soil.
Situate the container in an area that receives full to partial sun. The seeds will not germinate if placed in an area in full shade.
Water the container, fully moistening the soil. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy until the seed germinates. Continue to water the seedling two to three times per week.