Dawn Redwood Germination:
1) As with all Redwoods, germination of seeds is slow and uncertain no matter which method is used.
2) Soak the seed in filtered water for 24 hours.
3) Place the seeds on a layer of paper towel, vermiculite, perlite.
 or peat-based seed compost in a resealable plastic bag, then cover with a layer of perlite, vermiculite or compost.
Seal the bag and place in a refrigerator for two to three weeks. Monitor the seeds to be sure the substrate stays damp but not wet.
4) Remove the bag from the refrigerator to a room-temperature area. At this point, the seeds can stay in the bag to germinate or may be moved to a pot or (weather permitting) outdoors. Seed germination will take one to two months. Although the trees prefer full sun for at least six hours per day, the seedlings need a gradual introduction. Also, be careful not to overwater or underwater the seedlings.