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ONTARIO ROCK GARDEN & HARDY PLANT SOCIETY |
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SEED GERMINATION GUIDE |
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This guide provides recommendations for germination of over 5700 seeds listed in the seed exchange of the Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society from 1995 to 2007. For each species, a single germination technique has been chosen from several successful approaches for dry seed stored 6 months @ 20°C, except where noted. While this data is based primarily on the experience of ORGS members, we have also relied extensively on methods described by Norman Deno (Seed Germination Theory and Practice), Dr. Pavel Slaby ( http://kadel.cz/flora ) and Tom Clothier ( http://tomclothier.hort.net/ ). We are continuing to collect complete data on many species. If you have suggestions for improving this guide or additional information about germination, E-mail carol.clark@utoronto.ca |
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WHAT OUR TEMPERATURE DESIGNATIONS MEAN |
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4C |
Either place seeds outdoors to be exposed to a wide range of winter temperatures including freezing or put them in a refrigerator (not a deep freezer). |
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10C |
Either place seeds outdoors in spring or fall or choose a very cool indoor location. |
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20C |
Either place seeds in a sheltered outdoor location in mid to late spring or grow at room temperature. |
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SYMBOLS |
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* |
This species needs special care as described. |
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? |
We have no information on the germination of this species. If "?" is followed by a code, the code reflects an informed guess. Let us know what is successful. |
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! |
Sow immediately. The viability of these seeds is short or the species propagates best with fresh seed. Stored seed might be coaxed into germination with temperature cycling and patience. |
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LETTERS |
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A |
Sow @ 20C. Seed germinates within 3 months. |
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B |
Sow @ 20C. If seed does not germinate within 3 months, try 4C for 1-2 months, then 20C again. |
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C |
Sow @ 20C for 3 months, then place @ 4C for 3 months. |
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D |
Use repeated cycles of 20C, then 4C for 3 months each. Germination is very prolonged. |
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E |
Sow @ 20C for 6 weeks, then place @ 4C for 6 weeks, then slowly raise temperature to 10C for 6 weeks. If there is no germination, repeat the cycle. |
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F |
Sow @ 4C. |
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G |
Sow @ 4C for 3 months, then place @ 20C for 3 months. |
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H |
Use repeated cycles of 4C, then 20C for 3 months each. Germination is very prolonged. |
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J |
Sow @4C for 3 weeks, then place @20C. |
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K |
Sow @ 10C. |
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L |
Expose to fluctuating outdoor winter temperatures including freezing for 3 months. Gradually increase light and temperature in spring. |
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M |
Store seed in moist medium @ 4C for 3 months, then @ 20C until radicle appears. Repeat cycle until leaf appears. |
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N |
Sow directly in garden. |
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NUMBERS |
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1 |
Resents transplanting. |
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2 |
Requires darkness. |
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3 |
Requires light. |
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4 |
Germination is improved by using GA3. |
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5 |
Germination is successful only when GA3 is used. |
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6 |
Requires scarification. Nick or rub between sheets of sandpaper. |
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7 |
Requires soaking. Place in warm water until seeds swell, usually 24-48 hours. Discard floaters and water. |
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8 |
Pulpy coat inhibits germination. Remove by soaking and rinsing in clean water daily for 7 days. Discard water. |
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9 |
Tails may inhibit germination. Remove them. |
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GA - 3 |
GA-3 has been
shown to promote germination of a few species. |
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Web Admistrator: Peter Gill 10/07 |