30 Dawn Redwood Seeds. How to Grow Dawn Redwood From Seed Growing this tree from seed requires a cold stratification. Keep seeds moist in the refrigerator for a month or two and then germination is still not very high. Plant seeds in a peat pot, covering them only to about 1/4 inch with soil. They need good light to germinate. Place the pot in a plastic bag for better humidity, keep the soil moist, and keep the pot in a cool area with only indirect light. Time to germinate:30 to 40 days. Let the seedling become strong and grow several inches before planting it in the ground.