How to Grow Sequoias Fast

Grow sequoias in a cool climate for the fastest growth. The tree grows best in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 5 through 9, where the lowest temperature during the winter is between minus 20 and 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Protect young sequoias from winter winds with a wall or other vertical structure.

Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours and allow them to dry. This process softens the shells, allowing the seeds to germinate for easily.

Place the seeds in a refrigerator for one to two months. This provides the cold stratification period that sequoias need to germinate reliably.

Scatter the seeds thinly on top of the soil, but keep them uncovered, as they require some light to germinate. Sow the seeds in a site with deep, rich soil and good drainage. The seedlings grow best in dappled shade but prefer full sun, as they outgrow surrounding trees.

Give young sequoias 2 inches of water per week, keeping the soil moist at all times during the growing season. The mature trees generally do not require supplemental watering in areas that receive at least 45 inches of precipitation per year.

Plant cuttings from the ends of soft stems in the summer to propagate sequoia trees. A cutting in late summer from a semi-hard stem also is an effective method of propagating these trees.