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How to Stratify Seeds

This is a way to increase germination for seeds that grow best in northern climates

Things You'll Need

  • plastic bag
  • seeds
  • vermiculite
  • water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the seeds in a sealable plastic bag.

    • 2

      Add moistened vermiculite (or sand or even a moistened paper towel) and refrigerate. Use three times the amount of vermiculite as seeds.

    • 3

      Dampen the vermiculite. It is important to only slightly dampen as excessive moisture can cause the seeds to grow mouldy in the bag. As such, err on the side of drier rather than wetter. To give an idea, it should not be possible to squeeze any dripping water out of the vermiculite.

    • 4

      Refrigerate for 2 weeks.

    • 5

      Seeds are now stratified for better germination upon planting.

    • 6

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