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Stratification of seeds
Many gardeners are faced with the fact that crops do not germinate. In most cases, this is due to the fact that no preliminary seed stratification has been carried out. This procedure is necessary in order to accelerate the germination of the seed.
Types of plant stratification
Not every amateur gardener has come across this term. Therefore, it is worthwhile to find out the definition first. Seed stratification is the process by which an imitation of the natural conditions preceding the germination of plants is created. In general, such a procedure is necessary in order to awaken the “sleeping” seed.
Seed stratification increases the chance of germinating
There are several types of stratification that are useful for a particular type of culture. But it should be understood that not every seed needs “awakening”. For example, southern dwellers such as tomato, eggplant or pumpkin are quite viable even after simple soaking. The main types of stratification:
- Cold way. This method is used for plants with a temperate climate and frosty winters, such as sea buckthorn, spruce, ginseng, lavender and others. For this, the seeds are covered with peat and kept at temperatures up to 5 ° C from one month to six months. You can use the bottom shelf of the refrigerator for these purposes.
- Warm way. A similar process helps plants native to wake up from places with relatively warm winters. Rice and holly are prominent representatives of this species. In this method, the seeds are wrapped in a damp cloth and placed in a warm place.
In addition to the usual methods of stratification, the combined method, as well as washing, bubbling and freezing, helps to awaken the seed. The choice of any of these processes depends on the type of plant.
How to carry out combined seed stratification at home
This method is necessary for crops with hard shell seeds. These include primroses, apricots, hawthorn, viburnum and the like. In order for the seeds of these plants to sprout, it is necessary to simulate the change of several seasons.
Primrose seeds should be refrigerated for 1–2 weeks. Then they are wrapped in cloth and placed in a warm place. It is recommended not to allow the seeds to dry out. Therefore, they need to be constantly moisturized.
To begin with, the bones are kept for 3-4 months at a temperature of + 20-25 ° C. And then they put it in the refrigerator for six months. In the future, they are planted in the soil.
Stratification is a pretty rewarding process. Without it, it is difficult to start seed germination. But the main thing is to find the right way to awaken the seed.