Seed Stratification for Germination

Some seeds do not have a hard seed coat, but rather go into a dormancy period that can make germination a long affair. You will have to wake these seeds from their slumber using a process called stratification.

Stratification involves creating favorable environmental conditions in which the seeds would germinate in nature. Seeds and plants that go into dormancy typically come to life after the return of spring temperatures and rainfall. You must mimic the cycle of dormant winter season followed by natural germination season. Stratification involves exposing seeds to cold temperatures - typically in your refrigerator - for a period of time before attempting to germinate them. Check your seed packet for specific stratification recommendations.

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