From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Ohio

Anyone have a special technique on how they germinate Pear or Apple seeds? These type seed have always been the toughest seeds to germinate for me. I have tried many diffrent ways and just cant get the hang of it. Wish they was as easy as starting a pumpkin seed.

Brooks

11/24/2008 8:02:29 PM

Menomonie, WI (mail@gr8pumpkin.net)

A good soak and then heat is what works for us. I am not sure but I always seem to have better luck with top heat of a light.

11/25/2008 8:51:38 AM

Bethlehem CT

Hi Brooks, apples and pear seeds will definitely benefit from a cold stratification period, the seeds are chemically inhibited from germinating until a cold requirement is met in the seed. This is natures way of preventing seed from germinating in the fall. Once the seed is stratified it should germinate in much higher percentages. If you are interested in doing this just e-mail me and I will give you directions.

11/25/2008 11:22:47 AM

Ohio

Thanks for the info, I now think thats a big part of my germination problem, Im going to stick the seeds in the freezer for a while and then give em a try.

Thanks!

11/27/2008 9:03:11 PM

Bethlehem CT

Another easy way to meet the cold requirement is; to plant them in the fall, (water them in) then leave outside through a few of winters cold months, then bring them in, in late winter and get em growing.

11/28/2008 11:07:05 AM

Cincinnati,OH

The freezer is too cold, go with the fridge.
This is a good info site.

http://www.treeshrubseed.com/treatingseed.htm

11/28/2008 3:58:57 PM