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How to Germinate Dried Wisteria Seeds

Fragrant vines climbing on a range of supports adorn summer scenes along the east coast of the U.S. Panicles of flowers cascade from climbing wisteria vines. A member of the pea family, Wisteria vines may be native to the Eastern U.S., or Chinese or Japanese in origin. Summer flowers in shades of white and lavender appear, followed by seed pods. Once the seed pods have dried, the hard seeds inside are ready for germinating. Seeds will be tan in color and should be dry, as well. The germination process can begin immediately or save the seeds for late winter germination.

Things You'll Need

  • Dried wisteria seeds
  • Soilless potting mix
  • Containers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scarify the seed, by nicking or abrading the hard seed covering. Use sandpaper, a small knife or a nail file to scar the seed coat. This allows the seed to take up water (imbibe) to begin the process of germination.

    • 2

      Soak seeds in warm water overnight. This further prepares the seed for the journey to germination and growth.

    • 3

      Plant seeds into a germinating mix or into a homemade mixture of bark, peat moss and compost. Place premoistened mix into a well-soaked peat pot or plastic growing tray. Wisteria seeds may take up to two months to germinate.

    • 4

      Locate the pots or trays in a warm area, free from direct sunlight. Retain moisture by covering with a plastic bag or dome lid. Keep the soil consistently moist. Mist with water from a spray bottle when soil dries out on top. Don't allow soil to become soggy, as the seeds can rot.

    • 5

      Transplant seedlings when a set of true leaves appears on each plant. Move seedlings into small pots and begin the hardening off process. Start by placing young seedlings in morning sun and gradually increase sunlight each day. When seedlings are acclimatized, plant into a sunny location in the ground where wisteria has a support to climb.