Planted Conkers Last Autumn, Where Should They Be Now?

Question

Firstly, thanks for replying to my question last year. I’m growing conkers from conkers, I put them in pots last year and some have the white-pink worm thing coming out, which I think is the root, but none of them have grown above the soil line yet, is this normal? if so, when will they grow above the soil line? I’m based in North England if that makes a difference to the growth rate – Thanks.

Answer 1

Roots will not move, so anything that resembles a worm is likely not a root. Unfortunately, your photo did not come through. I am unable to see what is being referenced.

It can take a year or so to break dormancy, though it is usually a little less than that. You can check the status of the seed by, gently, scraping away the soil to uncover the top of the seed.

If there are plenty of roots throughout the soil, then you could expect to see some growth by the end of spring.

Now, being in England, which is equivalent to our zone 9, there is a chance that it does not get cold enough to break dormancy. If this happens, you will want to put the seed into your refrigerator for at least a few weeks. After cold stratification, it will sprout.

Here is an article that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/horse-chestnut/how-to-grow-a-horse-chestnut-tree.htm