Terminology for General Germination Procedures

Educared provides suggestions for the stratification of individual species based on our extensive research over a number of trials utilizing multiple seed batches.

These are rules designed to shorten the time a seed takes to germinate. The timing will help you control the outcome in a predictable way if you are planting seeds to grow plants in a controlled environment (a greenhouse or containers).

Stratifying your native seed is not as important if you are planting it straight in the ground. Certain species seem to germinate instantly, while others seem to take longer.

By using this defense mechanism, seed species shield themselves against calamities like floods, fires, and droughts that could endanger their entire generation of seeds.

As a guide, the following stratification codes may be found on each of our product pages

Cold-moist germination procedure

The wintry cold simulates winter. The germination process starts when seed coverings relax and permit water absorption in cold, damp circumstances.

It has been discovered that in order to maximize germination, different species require varying amounts of time in cold, damp environments.

The number that follows the old moist denotes the average number of days needed for stratification.

To achieve cold-moist stratification, keep your seed in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator for the necessary amount of time, along with a freshly cleaned, moist sponge or paper towel.

Another option for a moisture carrier is sterile silica-sand vermiculite. Regularly inspect your seed by simply staring at it without ever opening the bag. Neither mold nor fungus should be there.

Cold-dry germination procedure

You can achieve cold-dry stratification by putting seed in a sealed container and refrigerating it for a while.

The high humidity levels seen in most refrigerators, along with the chilly temperatures, are sufficient to promote germination.

It has been discovered that in order to maximize germination, different species require varying amounts of time in cold environments.

Warm moist germination procedure

Warm-moist stratification replicates the conditions of late summer, when late-season rainfall has started and soil temperatures are still rather high. This technique requires temperatures between 75 and 80 degrees.

Dry-warm germination procedure

Warm, dry stratification simulates the conditions that a seed encounters as it falls into the soil in the late spring.

The summertime soil temperatures and the typical light rainfall are what create this environment.

It can be made in an environmental chamber capable of maintaining these same temperatures over time, or it can be made in the soil outside.

Cold stratification procedure

By placing the seeds in contact with cool, damp soil, cold stratification is created, effectively replicating winter. Generally, refrigeration is effective, but be sure the seeds are moist!

Warm stratification procedure

Warm stratification is typically done to mimic the end of summer and is followed by cold stratification, which is the process of putting seeds in contact with warm, moist soil.

Hot soak procedure

If seeds are submerged in hot water, some species' dormancy can be broken considerably more quickly. Before planting, we normally soak (and let cool) these seeds in a cup of water that is 180 degrees Fahrenheit (80 degrees Celsius).

Acid treatment procedure

Two distinct acid treatments are available. While the other utilizes regular home vinegar, the first uses concentrated sulfuric acid. When used by an untrained person, sulfuric acid can be extremely harmful; therefore, proceed with extreme caution!

It is important to take SAFETY precautions when treating acidic materials.

Of course, vinegar is safer, but it takes longer to soak and might not be effective for all species. The method is much the same as when using sulfuric acid.

The seeds are put in a glass container (use only glass; do not use any other kind) and coated with sulfuric acid at the right concentration.

Remember: Never, ever combine water and acid! Never forget to add acid to the water!

Depending on the species, the seeds are soaked for anywhere from ten minutes to many hours. The right concentration of acid and the appropriate period are indicated on the product page if we advocate this procedure.

The seeds are taken out, cleaned, and stratified once the seed coat has been soaked for the appropriate length of time. NOTE: Using acids or chemicals can result in accidents or injuries for which we do not take liability.