Chinese Elm Seeds: May 2022 stratification

Stratification is the process of putting seeds through a cold spell (i.e. pretend it’s a snowy winter) to get them to germinate. I’ve tried it before, and got nothing. I eventually did some research, which suggested I’d put too much water in. So I’m trying it again with seeds taken from Chinese Elms which are on a bunch of streets in the neighbourhood.

Many, many seeds.

I waited until late autumn, when the seeds were beginning to fall off. I assume that means they’re ready to plant.

Chinese Elm Seeds: May 2022 stratification
the jar is to bring them home.

My research is that the right treatment is:

  • spray seeds on a paper towel till the towel is damp
  • fold the towel and put it into a ziplock bag
  • stick them in the fridge till spring
I don’t recall why I decided 10 weeks was right. I guess I’m aiming for the end of winter. Maybe I’ll research again, or maybe I’ll wing it.

Programming note: this category is going to seem stupid eventually.

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