Question
I have access to two large sycamores on property other than my yard in the Dallas, TX area, but I can't see by what means they multiply.  I'm very impatient to have shade in my yard which is mostly white rock and clay, although this doesn't seem to be a problem for the plants that grow in my flower beds.  Is it too late/early to somehow start a sycamore tree because I want it right now!  Thanks, I'm so glad to find an expert. The two trees I'm referring to are in a more sandy soil, a little further east from my house.

Answer
Hi Lisa,
Thanx for your question.  The seeds are located in the seed balls that are about the size of large marbles, inside the fluffy stuff.  Plant the seeds in a pot of moist but not soggy potting soil about 1/4 deep and keep moist.  Germination should occur within a month or so.  Allow the seedling to produce a couple of sets of true leaves and then prick out gently and plant in separate pots.  Place the pots outdoors in the shade protected from wind, rain and hail for about 10 days.  After that, plant in direct sun.  The tree wil eventually vareag 60-75 feet tall but is a relatively fast grower.  I hope this helps.

Tom