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Eddyz@efirehose.net

Looking to anyone that has had success at getting old seeds to pop. Hints, methods etc.
I've been testing different methods, and so far, I've popped 1995 seeds at a rate of 6 out of 10 using an egg incubator, but would like to know if removing the seed coat would help
Eddy

3/25/2008 10:40:25 PM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

Try searching for the formula that includes potassium nitrate & GA3. I had posted it here a couple years ago.

3/25/2008 10:56:30 PM

Wallingford,CT

Eddy, although not old , I have germinated seeds from a pumpkin that was culled at day 23. It was necessary to remove the seed coat and then use the wet paper towel/zip lock bag method. They were slow to produce a root, sometimes as long as 4 plus days. Once it started I placed it on top of the soil with only the root in the soil. then covered with clear plastic wrap and place under a desk lamp. the cots were not completely filled when the coats was removed due to being only 23 days. use care if you try to remove the seed coat.

bart

3/26/2008 6:27:12 AM

Eddyz@efirehose.net

Thanks for the many email
Bart, can you email me your phone number please, I'd like to discuss further
Eddy

3/26/2008 10:01:31 AM

President - GPC

Eddy when you are done accumulation your info I would like a email, Barry Todd is also wanting to pop a seed that is very old, some selfed Dill seed he has.....very interesting too......Ill be trying a seed thats 13 years old.

WiZ

3/26/2008 10:58:26 AM

President - GPC

Bart,

How did that plant turn out?

3/26/2008 10:59:18 AM

Wallingford,CT

the plant was grown with only about 20 ft of main and a single secondary. The fruit was set on the main and grew to 365 pounds. I grew it only for the seeds not competition.

bart

3/26/2008 1:40:00 PM

Sparta, NC

I too am going to try some old seeds 1996. Could you forward the info to me too Eddy? Thanks carlton@skybest.com

3/26/2008 4:25:32 PM

Eddyz@efirehose.net

Sambo
Yes I will no problem,

I'm finging this Gerbalic acid is a must.
Also talked with some Agronomists, and a few have developed a new germination theory, Waiting for a possible experimental package from them.
The incubator is also a move forward, as I can keep the temp within 1/2 a degree. So far I have had the best success at 88.5 degrees F. on older seeds. The new seeds don't care too much, as I've had pretty much equal results from 83 - 90 degrees.
After 90 degrees, they seem to loose moisture too fast. I'm pretty much going with 88-89 degrees.
Eddy

3/27/2008 12:10:30 PM

Indiana

Recommended Germination Books

Dr. Norman Deno,
139 Lenor Drive,
State College, PA 16801.
(Order Books Directly from Dr. Deno)

Seed Germination Theory and Practice
· $20.00 US Post Paid
· For the devoted seed grower. Excellent introductory chapters on
factors affecting germination, seed collection, storage, longevity as well as research on use of GA-3 to stimulate germination. Over 4000 species (805 genera) studied.

First Supplement to Seed Germination Theory and Practice
· $15.00 US Post Paid
· Data on 40 new plant families, 518 new genera, 1117 new species, and
updates of earlier work on 282 species, including work on sedges, palms and cyads. Some new principles relating to germination blockage due to lack of oxygen and because of physical restraint ( Aril Iris). Separate chapter devoted to extensive studies on Cacti.

Second Supplement to Seed Germination Theory and Practice
· $15.00 US Post Paid
· Dr. Deno's final studies on germination. Bamboos, garden herbs, Iridaceae and Liliaceae from S. Africa. Australian rushes and sedges are included.

Dr. Deno has now turned his attention to the study of seed storage and I am sure we can
expect a fascinating first book in an area of crucial importance not only to the seed industry, but to the individual seed collector and saver.

3/27/2008 1:03:44 PM

Indiana

My above post is where I got my GA3 dosage information. I do not recall the page, or dosage, but I believe I tried 0, 250, 500, 750, and 1000 ppm dosages.

I seem to recall the threshold dosage to be between 500 and 750 before the plant was screwed up.

Tom

3/27/2008 1:08:53 PM

Southeast

Marc Sawtelle is a good resource on this subject as well as Tom Beachy.

3/27/2008 2:33:58 PM