- 1). Harvest eucalyptus seeds after the seed capsules have developed fully. The surface of the capsule will look visibly scarred when the seed is viable, usually within a few months after the capsule's appearance. To open the capsule, place it in a warm, very dry place for several days. If it doesn't open, the seeds can be extracted with a small knife or pen tip. Viable seeds can be black, brown, tan or orange.
- 2). Cold-stratify the seeds to encourage germination by placing them in a plastic bag between several layers of moist paper towels and storing in the refrigerator for four to six weeks. Remember to coordinate the process around the time you want to plant outdoors in the spring. Check the paper towels often to make sure they stay moist, spraying with a mister if necessary.
- 3). Sow the seeds into a seed tray that you have filled with light, fast-draining potting mix. Spread the seeds on the surface of the mix and sprinkle a thin layer of fine, clean sand over them, using enough to just cover them. Moisten the mix with a sprayer to avoid disturbing the seeds and continue to keep the potting mix moist but not wet.
- 4). Put the tray in a draft-free place where the temperature remains between 60 and 65 degrees F, and keep the soil moist.
- 5). Move the tray into bright light as soon as the seeds germinate. A sunny windowsill is ideal; you can also use a grow light. Remember to keep the soil moist.
- 6). Transplant the seedlings to a larger flowerpot filled with potting mix when they have two sets of true leaves and continue to keep them in bright light. They will be ready for transplanting outdoors when they are 10 inches tall.
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