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A Growing List of Herb Seeds to Stratify

A Growing List of Herb Seeds to Stratify

Mary Smith |

In our article The Wonder of Seeds and Germination we discussed the different environmental needs of some seeds. In this article, we will share a more in depth look at Cold Stratification as well as specific varieties that should be stratified for optimal germination.

In nature, seeds require certain conditions in order to germinate. Seed stratification is the process where seed dormancy is broken in order to germinate. In order for the stratification of seeds to be successful, we create an environment to mimic the natural cycle. For cold stratification, we use coconut coir or sand, water and refrigerate.

Winter Sowing is the natural germination process. For this article, we are re-creating that environment in 4-6 weeks instead of several months.

At the bottom of the list, we've copied the instructions we originally shared in The Wonder of Seeds and Germination.

 

LIST OF HERBS TO COLD STRATIFY

Anise Hyssop

Angelica

Arnica

Bergamot / Beebalm

Betony

Butterfly Weed

Catmint

Catnip

Chamomile

Comfrey

Echinacea (purple coneflower)

Goldenrod

Larkspur / Delphinium

Lavender

Lemon Balm

Lupine

Marshmallow

Milkweed (Asclepias)

Mountain Mint (L)

Mugwort

Mullein

Phlox

Poppy

Ramps

Sage

Saint John's Wort

Self Heal

Skullcap

Stinging Nettles

Rosemary

Valerian

Verbena

Wild Strawberry

Yarrow

Artichokes

 

Cold stratification is an extremely easy process and once you’ve done it once, you’ll no doubt get the hang of it. The time you need to keep your seeds in the refrigerator depends on the variety, but 4-5 weeks should be a sufficient amount of time for most seed varieties.

Once there’s no more chance of frost in your area, take your seeds out of the fridge and plant as normal. The simple, quick process of cold stratification helps the seed germinate quicker and grow more readily in your garden bed.

 

DIY Cold Stratification

Coconut Coir or Sand & Water

  1. Place a 1/4 cup of coconut coir sand (or more) in a mixing bowl. Slowly add water until you can form a ball with the sand/water mixture.
  2. Add your desired seed amount to the sand. Mix thoroughly.
  3. Place sand/seed mixture in a ziploc bag or container and seal.
  4. Label the variety and date clearly on the bag.
  5. Place in the refrigerator for 4-6 weeks before planting. If seedlings start to sprout in the bag in the refrigerator, remove immediately and either plant in the ground or in pots until it’s time to plant outdoors.
If you have additional questions, please feel free to ask!
Email: mary@marysheirloomseeds.com
HAPPY PLANTING!


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6 comments

What about blueberries & other berries? Do they require up to 4 months? – should they be kept outside to simulate their growing/ winter conditions?

Cat,

I would also like to know about sweet peas and nasturium since I have both to plant. Thanks

Gracie Adams,

Mary what about vegetables I’ve done some with success., kalibos cabbage, squash with winter sowing in the milk jugs.

Charlene Gough,

Can seeds that need cold stratification, just be put on damp paper towels and covered in fridg? Or do they need to be put in coconut coir or sand and water? What about sweet peas or nasturium? Thanks

SUSAN JOHNSON,

Thank you for sharing your article on seeds that require stratification.

Kathryn Carroll ,

Can seeds, that need cold stratification, be stored (long term) in the fridge? I hadn’t seen this article, previously. I stored the seed packets in the fridge, over the winter, and recently sowed some indoor to start.

Jolene,

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